Therapy Isn’t as Difficult as You Think

Did you know that in therapeutic circles there is a term called “the identified patient.” This is the family member that actually seeks out therapy even though other members could dramatically benefit from getting some help. In fact, the identified patient is often the healthiest member of the family, the one who is self-reflective, who is emotionally healthy enough to be willing to acknowledge that they can use some guidance. The one who seeks therapy is often the one who is has an open, non-defensive attitude- who is willing to learn. 

Too often people fear that needing therapy means your are “weak,” or “damaged,” rather than “strong” enough to say you don’t have to be perfect, “strong” enough to be able to handle feedback even if it can make you uncomfortable, and “confident” enough to be able to be honest with themselves and try new paths. 

Therapy can also be fun! Yes, it can! Part of therapy is the therapeutic relationship itself and you can find yourself laughing with your therapist as you accept a flaw or gain an insight that the old you would have rejected. Therapy is a process. Sometimes you may go deep and other times talk about the weather. All roads lead to Rome and how you interact with your therapist is a mini-world of how you interact with others, but in a much safer environment. The beauty of therapy is that you can be you and know you will not be judged! Therapy is your place to be all about you!! About your needs, your hopes, your fears. 

Sometimes “therapy” is coaching, or guidance; sometimes the therapist is a sounding board, or someone to safely vent to; other times therapy is therapy- as in going deep into what is painful so it can be released, not stuffed, but let go of. Sometimes therapy about learning new skills since old ones are no longer working. Therapy has many faces and none of them have to be scary.