Therapy and Things to Know

Happy Wednesday. How are you really feeling? It’s mid week so do a check in. These days and weeks are flying so fast that sometimes we don’t do a check in and we need to. October is Emotional Wellness month and often in a world that now has accepted therapy there are a few things that first time therapy attendees need to know so let’s dive in.

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Appointments are Spread Out

If you have never attended therapy and you know you need to get it I encourage you to tap in. As much as we are told that letting others in our business is problematic, therapy is a great tool to use. Therapy helps you with helping to become more emotional sound. We all have triggers or “stuff” we carry along our journey. It’s usually when a season of life changes that we don’t realize how invaluable therapy becomes. When you make that first appointment remember a few key things”

• The intake person or receptionist is only that. They may not be hearing your urgency in you voice or tone
• You may have to call back or do your own follow up to ensure you have an appointment set
• Be patient and call another facility if the one you want is too full to take new patients

Therapist appointments are super full especially around the holidays. Do NOT let that discourage you to pursue it.

Therapy isn’t like Television

You may not leave every session smiling and happy. You may leave mad, upset, eyes filled with tears, or find that you are incredibly tired. If you are able, try to not to schedule anything of importance behind a therapy appointment. You may find that you are too tapped out to tap into a new project afterwards. Give yourself space to allow the emotions to do what needs to be done.

Move on from Therapist

There is this misconception that when you start therapy that you may be in for years consistently. You may initially need it for a few months and then stop. You may pick it back up as you see fit. Consult with your therapist on what you need and for how long. If you are finding you are not connecting to your therapist please give it 3-4 sessions before you quit. You may be finding that your therapist is having you explore areas that may be closed off. Don’t confuse the work of therapy with dislike. If you are finding you are invested and after 3-4 sessions you aren’t connecting, work to find a new therapist. Do not just end therapy altogether.

Therapy is Work

Your therapist is not a miracle worker. You will get out of therapy what you put into it. If your therapist gives homework, do the work. There’s a reason for it. Also know with working with a therapist, you will find moments of frustration with yourself. The trauma and drama that you have been entangled with is not easy to push through after only a few sessions. Be gentle with what therapy reveals. It is a hard pill to swallow when you find that not only have you been in toxic situations but you too may have contributed to the toxicity.

If you can get therapy under your job for free sessions under your employee benefits, take them. Usually there are 3-6 sessions that are free. They will most likely find someone who can continue under your health benefits at a copay to you. Make the investment into your wholeness. There are also online therapist that may beneficial like, Better Help.

Therapy and Family

Remember it would be ideal if your family and friends supported you with therapy. I am going to be the first to say they might now. When I first started therapy I was shocked that my husband told his friends that I was having to take medication. I felt violated. It wasn’t his story to tell. I say this not to put him out although I have said this on the Podcast. Its saying so that others understand the ups and downs of starting your healing journey will be. Even with therapy you will have good and bad days.

Trust the process. It may get frustrating as you navigate this world. You can seek therapist for the trauma you have experienced like child abuse, sexual assault, etc. There is a therapist for all of your needs. If therapy is a source you have used or are considering I wish you well in that journey.