Demystifying Therapy: What It Is and Isn't
How much do you really know about therapy?
Think about how much of that knowledge comes from movies, TV shows, or media stories. Media portrayals, as with many professions, are often oversimplified or sensationalized. I’ve seen portrayals of therapists and thought, “Yeah, that’s not how it goes…” There are a lot of misconceptions about therapy that need to be addressed. This blog post aims to clarify the true purpose and give you a better idea of what therapy is and isn’t.
What Therapy Is
A judgement-free and safe space to share and be heard
It’s a place where you can be yourself, where your experiences are respected, and where your perspectives are heard. This doesn’t mean we’re there to agree with everything you say. At times, we’re going to have to confront, push, and provide guidance, but at your own pace and in a respectful way. The key focus here is that the approach taken won’t feel like you’re being criticized for how you feel. It’s about being respectful of your emotions but still finding ways to explore deep core issues.
Why is it important to have someone to talk to? Keep reading.
A chance to see your blind spots
Think of therapy as getting a separate set of eyes or having a bird’s eye view of your life. Navigating complex issues can feel overwhelming and can feel like you’re going through a maze.
This can affect anyone regardless of their talent or intelligence. This also explains why you might notice someone else’s blind spots but find yourself puzzled as to why they can’t see the same issues as clearly themselves. Maybe, there’s a chance that you might not see your own blindspots as easily either. Give it some thought. And that’s perfectly normal. When you’re dealing with stressors, they blur your vision and make it difficult to see clearly. A therapist’s role is to allow you to see the whole picture.
It takes work and time
True progress unfolds gradually with consistent effort and a willingness to continue moving forward at a healthy pace. My clinical supervisor, Coretta Rego, has a great way of explaining this idea. Therapy is like peeling the layers of an onion. Each layer represents something about our lives — whether that be experiences, emotions, or beliefs.
As we peel each layer, we start discovering things about ourselves, and occasionally, this may bring tears. It can be emotional and challenging at times. That’s not to say all sessions look the same — some are more intense than others. Many sessions I have with my clients tend to also focus on lighter and happier things. The point is that it’s a process that takes time and is a true sign of strength.
What Therapy Isn’t
A way to get “fixed”
Therapy doesn’t operate under the assumption that people are broken and in need of fixing. It’s a collaborative process that empowers individuals with the tools and insight needed for personal growth. It’s already there. Some individuals just need some help tapping into that innate resilience to face their struggles.
Only for those with severe mental health issues
This is another huge misconception. You don't need to be dealing with major mental health challenges to find therapy useful – it's good for everyone. Anyone interested in personal growth can benefit from therapy. There’s always room for improvement regardless of our achievements. Think of it as a proactive step towards maintaining mental wellness. It’s not always a crisis situation when someone attends therapy. Sometimes, people realize it’s wise to seek assistance before problems escalate beyond control.
A decision-making service
Therapists do not make decisions for you. It’s a collaborative process where we explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours so you’re able to make informed decisions on your own. Remember, it’s more guidance than direction. We want you to be able to manage your emotions, make decisions, and navigate challenges on your own. We’ll work closely with you to help equip you with the tools to do so!
Therapy is way more than what you see on TV or hear about in passing. It’s not a magical quick fix where a therapist waves a wand and poof; everything changes. It’s about getting real with yourself. Think of it as having a heart-to-heart with someone who’s there to help you see the bigger picture of your life.
It’s kind of like a GPS. Sure, you can drive without it, but with it, you might find shortcuts, avoid traffic jams, or discover scenic routes you didn’t even know existed.
Or, think of it as unpacking your thoughts, looking at them with someone who gets the journey, and then maybe repacking them in a way that makes carrying them a bit easier. There are so many ways I could break this down for you. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free consultation, don't hesitate to reach out!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. While we aim to provide useful insights and perspectives, this content should not be considered a replacement for professional therapy, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling with mental health issues or have concerns about your well-being, we strongly encourage you to seek the advice of a healthcare professional to receive support tailored to your needs.