Five Common "Things" to Expect in Therapy
Everyone has their own idea of what therapy is. There are some stereotypes that are true and some that can inhibit individuals from beginning their therapeutic journey. Below are a few very common but often misconceived ideas about therapy. I hope this helps to normalize therapy and encourage you to take your first step toward wholeness and freedom.
1. Not every session has to be emotionally deep
Sometimes in therapy, you may end up discussing things that don’t feel emotionally deep or intense, and that’s okay! It can be just as therapeutic and trust-building to celebrate accomplishments, share photos, talk about recent adventures, books you're reading, or podcasts you’re listening to. Having fun and laughing in therapy is as beneficial as crying and processing.
2. Things may feel worse before they feel better
Therapy often offers comfort and relief, however, the hard work of therapy often involves bringing up uncomfortable feelings, discussing situations that have caused you pain, and revisiting trauma. At times, therapy may feel heavier before it feels lighter.
Overall, therapy should feel beneficial, but it may take some time before you begin to see the positive changes. Like all good things therapy takes time, honesty, and dedication to your journey.
3. You might not click with your therapist (immediately)
The initial session with a therapist can often feel like a first date. It takes time to build trust with your therapist. I always encourage clients to give it at least 2-3 sessions before deciding but to always make sure they feel comfortable and confident in choosing to continue in therapy with me. There are plenty of therapists in the world, and a good one will want you to be with someone you feel safe with. If you don't feel like you're clicking with your current therapist, share this concern with them and ask for recommendations.
Therapy is for YOU, make sure you’re with someone you trust and can be authentic with.
4. Your therapist won't give you the answers
A common misconception in therapy is that your therapist will give you advice and tell you what to do. If your therapist ever tells you what to do, consider it a red flag. Therapists are to be mirrors, reflecting back to you, while assisting you in processing emotions, experiences, thoughts, and behaviors. The saying goes, "you are the expert of your life," therefore, a safe therapist should be empowering you to make your own healthy decisions, that best suit your life.
However, therapists are humans and flawed, therefore they will make mistakes. You should feel safe and encouraged to correct your therapist if you feel as though they have an incorrect interpretation of what you're sharing or provide feedback that does not sit well with you.
5. Your experience will be different than your friends
It is common to compare our experiences to others, but it is important to keep in mind that your experience in therapy will be different than your friend’s, your brother’s, or that influencer’s on TikTok. You are your own individual, made up of your own experiences, therefore your therapeutic journey SHOULD look different.
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all. Some of the most important things to keep in mind are that you feel comfortable and safe with your therapist, you get to set the pace and at the end of the day, therapy is for YOU.
