This is such a common and valid question to have, especially if this is your first time considering therapy. I want to share some of the main ways that therapy can work for you.
Read more: Will Therapy Work For MeTherapy can help you learn healthy ways to cope
In therapy, you will be able to differentiate healthy coping mechanisms from unhealthy coping mechanisms. Maybe you have tried to engage in self-care practices but have found it to be challenging. In therapy, you can explore ways to implement coping mechanisms throughout your day and find a way for them to be sustainable. Therapists understand the importance of identifying barriers that have previously prevented you from maintaining progress.
Therapy can help you face issues that have been weighing you down
It can be scary to address something from your past, but being able to work through past trauma, heartache, trust issues, and fears can help in thinking about life differently. Try choosing a therapist that specializes in trauma and can help you find ways to let go and move forward.
Therapy can help you connect with others
Many people find it challenging to connect with others when they are stressed or faced with conflict. This can be linked to what your attachment style is and is something that was formed from such an early age. Maybe that is separating themselves from a conflict because growing up they were told “you’re angry, so go to your room” or maybe it is completely avoiding a conversation because growing up they learned to “not bother others” (likely to withdraw and experience an avoidant attachment style)
For other people it can be that they react in a frustrated and angry way because they learned at some point that they had to do this in order to be heard, so they continue to do this, only to find out that people are being pushed away (likely to pursue and experience an anxious attachment style). Going to therapy can help you learn about your attachment style, which in turn gives you insight in how you can manage these reactions and connect with others genuinely.
Therapy can help you learn how to make rational decisions
Sometimes when we are anxious, scared, or overwhelmed, we can make quick and impulsive decisions because we are hoping that we can quickly get rid of that feeling. Learning to implement healthy coping mechanisms can help you slow down and engage in more rational decision making.
Therapy can help you shift how you think
Sometimes our past can impact how we think about life, especially if we have experienced trauma, been rejected, been hurt by someone, been betrayed, or let down. Therapy can help you in being able to target thoughts that may be focused on putting others first (because this way they may like you) and instead focus on putting yourself first (which you may not do because you believe that is selfish). Therapy can also help in identifying thoughts that may be “false” (e.g. catastrophic thinking, black and white thinking, mind reading) or are keeping you back from believing in yourself.
If you are thinking of starting therapy on your own, I want you to know that it is worth it! There are so many ways in which therapy can help you individually (and as a couple). Put yourself first because you deserve it and know that you are not alone. Our therapists at Modern Wellness Counseling can help you by seeing you virtually for online counseling. You can call our office at (210) 706-0392 to schedule an appointment or visit our online booking system here.
