Three Things to Remember if you’re New to Therapy
If you’ve just begun your journey into healing with the help of a therapist, welcome. Whether it took you a few weeks to make the decision or several years, its always a brave choice. Maybe you were nervous going into it, not knowing what to expect. It’s possible that you felt relief, finally being able to share troubles. You might have felt overwhelmed, as many emotions bubbled up to the surface. All of these feelings (or none of these feelings) are normal and to be expected when coming into this type of space.
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(1) Healing Takes Time
This one is a tough one for a lot of people who are new to therapy. The emotions that you’ve been carrying around can be heavy. Who wouldn’t a place where they can just dump all of their struggles and move on with their lives? While a quick fix might sound appealing, you’ve probably seen how ineffective it can be in the long run.
One of the reasons why making the decision to seek help is so brave is because it’s a commitment. While the time varies for everyone, chances are, you are not going to see the changes you want to see in two or three sessions. Remember, your struggles did not appear over night; they won’t leave overnight either.
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(2) You and your therapist are forming a relationship
One of the best indicators of change from therapy comes from the relationship between you and your therapist. This relationship will grow as you develop trust and rapport. While this isn’t your typical relationship (our responsibility is to maintain a professional and therapeutic relationship), it builds over time, similarly to your other relationships. There may be times when there is a rupture in the relationship and a repair needs to be had. There may be times when boundaries need to reaffirmed. There will also be times when you’re enjoying a laugh together or you’re talking about your favorite TV show. Remember that these are all important parts of developing a relationship with your therapist, that will lead to greater outcomes for you.
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(3) You are the expert of your own life
Therapy won’t be a place where you are being told what to do and how to handle your life. While that might sound nice, it will inevitably lead to a codependent relationship.
What therapists really want for their clients is for them to feel empowered to take charge of their mental health. You might be thinking, “I don’t know how to do that” and that may be true (for now). It’s possible that you were never given the tools on how to show up for yourself but that is part of what will happen in therapy. While the therapist will not tell you what to do, they will help you process your stuff, while adding tools to your tool kit to help you move through life in a more empowered way.
Your healing journey will be unique to you. Make sure you take a moment to congratulate yourself for beginning yours. “Instead of saying, “I’m damaged, I’m broken, I have trust issues” say “I’m healing, I’m rediscovering myself, I’m starting over”
Meet the Author: Amber Tunney
Amber works with clients in all life stages in Baltimore who are looking to unpack their load with a professional. She has a special interest in working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self worth and relationship anxiety. She also has experience working with clients who have ADHD and who have suffered from trauma.
Amber is currently accepting new clients.
Interested in working with Amber?
Contact Niina Bacha, Care Coordinator to schedule your therapeutic fit call today support@spacebetweencounselingservices.com or call 443-240-5207
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