Many people consider going to therapy for a long time before they actually do it. There can be various things that hold people back. They may be concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health issues, face familial objections, or struggle with nervousness. Not knowing what to expect can add to this trepidation.
Understanding what to expect in therapy can help reduce nervousness and breakdown barriers toward increased mental health and better overall well-being.
What to Expect in Therapy
More people discover mental health counseling every day, not just as a tool to work through emotional conflict, but also to learn more about themselves and become mentally and emotionally stronger.
Psychotherapy, or simply, “therapy”, is a broad term that includes various therapeutic approaches designed to help people explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe, supportive, and non-biased environment. These approaches are then delivered in various formats, including individual, group, or family sessions—each tailored to meet an individual’s needs.
Some common approaches or modalities of mental health treatment include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – This type of psychotherapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors to improve emotional regulation and develop personal coping strategies.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) – A form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that emphasizes acceptance and change, and often used to treat borderline personality disorder and other mood disorders.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) – A psychotherapy treatment designed to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories by using guided eye movements.
These are just a few approaches available to help people address mental health concerns and work toward new personal goals. An initial consultation with a therapist will provide an opportunity to talk through modalities, create a plan of action, and find the best treatment option for you.
The Benefits of Psychotherapy
It’s important to remember that therapy isn’t a quick fix. It’s a collaborative effort that requires work and input from both the therapist and the client in order to see progress. Those who commit to the process, receive the long-term benefits of more self-awareness, exhibit more ownership over their own emotions, and experience profound healing from past traumas.
Many people experience these benefits from therapy:
- Reduced anxiety and improved mood
- Greater self-awareness and personal growth
- Gain healthy coping strategies and problem-solving skills
- A sense of being better able to understand themselves and others
The benefits of psychotherapy are plentiful. By engaging in therapy, people learn to navigate challenges more effectively and ultimately develop a healthier mindset.
How to Prepare for Therapy
As you prepare to begin your mental health journey, it’s helpful to think about what you hope to achieve and any specific concerns you wish to address. Consider questions you might have for potential therapists, such as which therapeutic approach they have specific training in and what issues they have experience working through with their clients.
Change Your Life Today with Therapy
Therapy offers the potential for profound personal growth and emotional healing, making it a worthwhile consideration for anyone seeking to improve their mental well-being. If you’re interested in exploring this path, consider reaching out to a local therapist or exploring telehealth services, which offer convenient and flexible options for mental health support.