Updated: Aug. 17, 2021
Originally Published: Aug. 17, 2021
My doctor has been suggesting since 2017 that I would greatly benefit from combining my (depression and anxiety) medication with talk therapy. Ugh. Honestly, I wanted to stomp my feet like a toddler and absolutely did not want to go. I’d rather tackle the dishes, sort through three baskets of laundry, or binge-watch my daughter’s favorite YouTube videos for an hour instead of attending a therapy session.
For decades, I mastered the art of burying any uncomfortable emotions that surfaced. Why change now? I can be just as resistant to change as your relative who meticulously saves wrapping paper from birthday gifts due to frugality stemming from the Great Depression. I get it. I might have a whole box filled with occasion bags for future gifting.
I recognize that I’m not doing a great job of selling therapy, but please hear me out. I share my story to let you know that I completely understand every hesitation you might have about therapy. I had the same doubts. I thought my issues weren’t significant enough to warrant therapy. I feared the embarrassment of revealing my innermost thoughts to a stranger. What if they thought I was just being dramatic? Deep down, I was truly afraid of one thing: What if therapy couldn’t fix me?
Understanding Therapy
There are numerous types of therapy available. So, where do you even start? The first step is to identify what you want to achieve through therapy. I remember when my therapist, Dr. Sarah*, first asked me this question. “Wait, what? I’m here, isn’t it your job to fix me?” Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. According to therapist Jacob Kountz, it’s essential to recognize that therapy is for you, and only you can define your goals.
Some individuals seek therapy to better manage their mental health, while others aim to address anger issues or maintain emotional balance. There’s no wrong reason to seek therapy. I eventually decided to pursue it because I felt my medication alone wasn’t enough support. Just as you might take a painkiller for a headache, it may provide temporary relief, but unless you address the root cause, the headaches will persist.
I hesitated due to uncertainty. What if I didn’t connect with the therapist? Jacob explained that everyone has a different comfort level when establishing a trusting relationship. Some may expect an instant connection, while others might take a few sessions to decide if the therapist is a good fit. Personally, I spoke with another provider before meeting Dr. Sarah.
I recall my first session with her vividly. It was a new year, and I felt ready to give it a shot. Due to the pandemic, my initial sessions were held online. Technical difficulties made me anxious, and I nearly threw my hands up in frustration, thinking this wasn’t meant to be. Yes, I can be a bit dramatic. Yet, somehow, I found myself logging back on the following week, and guess what? It turned out fine.
Still Unsure?
While I believe therapy is as crucial as any routine health check-up, I’m not a doctor, so who am I to say? The truth is, you don’t need to have gone through a significant crisis to seek therapy. Jacob made an essential point: “Therapy challenges you to pursue the life you’ve always desired. It can address the darkest moments, but as you learn new skills and establish healthier boundaries, you’ll realize you can truly live your life.”
So, there you have it, folks. From a therapist who understands both sides of the couch. Ultimately, I’m not here to convince you to go to therapy; I’m here to encourage you to pursue whatever it takes to achieve your best life. In sharing my experiences, I aim to offer support. Remember, any reservations you have about therapy are entirely normal, but don’t let that overly dramatic voice in your head prevent you from seeking help. Each person’s journey will look different, yet we all deserve a fulfilling life (not to be confused with perfection).
*Dr. Sarah’s name has been changed to protect privacy.
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Summary:
Therapy can seem daunting, but it can be a transformative experience. Many people, including the author, have faced hesitations about seeking help due to fears of judgment and uncertainty about the process. Understanding the purpose of therapy and setting personal goals are vital steps in the journey. It’s important to remember that therapy is for everyone, regardless of the severity of their issues, and can lead to a more fulfilling life.