If you’re thinking about starting mental health counseling, go for it!
I know for some; it can be scary and nerve racking. Typically, after meeting with your therapist, those feelings subside. Here are some things that might help during your therapeutic process.
If you’re thinking about starting mental health counseling, go for it! I know for some; it can be scary and nerve racking. Typically, after meeting with your therapist, those feelings subside. Here are some things that might help during your therapeutic process.
- No problem is too small. I often hear people say, “I feel bad taking your time when others have such bigger problems.” A therapist is there to help anyone who feels that they need added support or help.
- You are not “crazy”! Trust me when I say that nothing, I mean nothing, will shock your therapist. We have heard almost everything! In order to get what you need from the counseling process, know that you must be as honest as possible. Counseling is a “no judgment zone.”
- If you do not “click” with your therapist, please request a new one! Just like with friendships and relationships, sometimes personalities don’t click and that’s okay. Therapists do not get offended if you prefer someone else. Another reason to request a different therapist might be that you feel you have plateaued with your current one. It’s your treatment, you decide what is best for you.
- Therapists have different ethical laws than other licensed providers. While you typically feel a connection with your therapist, please do not be offended if your therapist does not acknowledge you while in public. This is to protect your confidentiality. It’s not that your therapist does not recognize you or want to say hi, we just do not want to put you in a situation where you have to explain how you know the person, in this case, your therapist. In addition, do not feel obligated to acknowledge your therapist outside of the counseling office, we get it completely!
- Counseling is not intended to last forever. Often, people “drop out” of therapy because they feel they have reached their goals but feel bad that they must tell their therapist that they don’t want to schedule further sessions. Please discuss this with your therapist. We love hearing that you are doing well; we can see it too! You will be successfully discharged from counseling and we are happy that you can move forward independently.
If you have contemplated going to therapy for any reason, give it a try! See if it helps. In the new year, give yourself permission to make time for your own self-care.
Guest blogger: Jackie Spadaro, MRC, LPCC-S https://nomshealthcare.com/physicians-services/physicians/jackie-k-spadaro/
