Why do people go to therapy and how do I know if it is right for me?

There are many reasons why an individual might seek psychotherapy. Everyone’s motivations are different. Some individuals might need help managing depression, anxiety, relationship problems, stagnation, poor self-confidence, career or work related issues, etc. Individuals may be experiencing major life stressors or transitions and not handling them well. Therapy can help provide support and build skills. Some individuals may utilize therapy to learn more about themselves and how they can achieve optimal functioning and wellness. Others may need assistance with goal setting, problem solving and decision making. Many individuals are at a place where they want change and believe the guidance and support therapy offers can help them achieve the change they are seeking.

What is therapy like?

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. In general, you can expect to discuss the current events happening in your life, your personal history relevant to your issue, and report progress (or any new insights gained) from the previous therapy session. Depending on your specific needs, therapy can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns or your desire for more personal development. Either way, it is most common to schedule regular sessions with your therapist (usually weekly).

It is important to understand that you will get more results from therapy if you actively participate in the process. The ultimate purpose of therapy is to help you bring what you learn in session back into your life. Therefore, beyond the work you do in therapy sessions, your therapist may suggest some things you can do outside of therapy to support your process – such as reading a pertinent book, journaling on specific topics, noting particular behaviors or taking action on your goals. People seeking psychotherapy are ready to make positive changes in their lives, are open to new perspectives and take responsibility for their lives.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Therapy sessions are absolutely confidential in almost every instance. Therapists are required by law to protect your privacy and cannot discuss what the two of you talk about in your sessions with anyone else. In addition, therapists are ethically responsible to keep your information confidential. In extreme circumstances of safety, some information may have to be shared, however, it will always be limited and the goal would be to ensure your safety and or the safety of others.

Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.

Therapy is an important investment in your overall health and well-being. While you may have been able to successfully manage difficult life situations in the past, seeking the guidance and support of a trained therapist allows for another perspective on how to solve your problems. Seeking therapy shows strength, insight, acceptance and a commitment to change. Participation in therapy can lead to lasting cognitive, emotional and behavioral changes in your life.

How can therapy help me?

There are a number of benefits that can be attained from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists can offer you support and help you with personal growth and skill building. Therapists are trained and can provide an objective perspective on your problems and help guide you towards a solution. Therapy is a collaborative process and the outcome is in part dependent on how well you use the process and practice what you learn. Therapy can help you more effectively manage your mood symptoms, help build your self-esteem and confidence, improve assertiveness and communication, help increase cognitive flexibility leading to alternative ways of viewing your difficulties, learn healthy ways to cope with life stressors, increase insight allowing for a better understanding of self, improve mental clarity and change cognitions and behaviors that are not working for you and help you develop new ones.

What about medication vs. psychotherapy?

It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. Working with your medical doctor you can determine what’s best for you, and in some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action.