Millions of people every year flock to therapy to seek answers about themselves and help with the challenges they face. Some people, however, think that going to one or two sessions will help “fix” it all. They may quit therapy when they become frustrated that this “fix” doesn’t happen. Frustration is a standard way to feel when you’re first entering treatment and don’t know what to expect. However, when it comes to truly reaping the benefits of sessions with a therapist, it’s essential to take things one day at a time.
Why There is No “Easy Fix”
Whatever issues a person faces, therapy can help provide answers. The first few sessions of therapy will help you and your therapist get to know each other and establish trust, as well as work on treatment methods that can benefit you.
For many issues, there’s no “fix” at all – you may have trauma or mental health needs that you need help understanding and coping with. Even when you’ve learned new coping skills, the issues will remain. You can’t do therapy in hopes of curing a mental health disorder. You can, however, learn new ways to manage a disorder and make peace with a diagnosis.
What Type of Therapy Is Right?
Therapy is no “one size fits all” type of endeavor. After all, you are a unique individual with your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. Working to help change negative beliefs and finding new behaviors for your challenges takes time.
Most likely, you’ll do talk therapy to start out so that your therapist can help you verbalize your issues. Throughout the talk therapy, you might try new tools such as mindfulness sessions or anxiety-busters like exercise. Your therapist wants you to feel better about yourself and help you feel in more control of your life.
You and your therapist will decide what type of tools you can use to cope with your issues.
Therapists will tell you that to get the most out of therapy; it’s essential to give yourself a chance. Try to stay open-minded. Sometimes you’ll find the tools your therapist recommends may not fit your needs. Speak up! It’s okay to ask for an alternative strategy.
Taking Your Time
Therapy can’t help you overnight. Many people use their sessions as a sounding board to explore new ideas and find new ways to cope. It’s hard to change a behavior or your thinking overnight. You can’t expect yourself to move so quickly.
Taking the time in therapy can help you, and your therapist, develop new strategies and give you a chance to get help as new or old issues rear their heads. You can check-in with your therapist every week, and they’ll be able to help you see your progress. You’ll also feel accountable to somebody when you have a therapy session every week.
Giving yourself time to change and grow will help you get the most out of therapy.
Getting Help
If you or somebody you love struggle with mental health issues or substance abuse, there’s help available in a non-judgmental environment. Learn more about how we can help by calling us at 949-245-9812.
