What's Therapy Even For Anyway?

Have you ever heard someone say, “I’m not going to therapy…that’s for crazy people!” Or, have you ever recommended therapy to someone and they retorted, “Oh, so you think something is wrong with me and I need help?” Needless to say, it can be a touchy subject depending on the experiences and thoughts of the person on the receiving end of a well-meant recommendation for therapy. But what is therapy even for anyway? While each therapist brings to the table their own style and clinical preferences, the underlying purpose is the same: help clients identify and move toward their goals.

On the surface, that may sound simple. But human beings are complex creatures! The aim of a therapist is to provide a judgment free, unbiased space for clients to process and explore whatever they might be working through as they identify their most pertinent goals. It can be a place to brainstorm the “best next step” or the healthiest decision, and an environment to build up the courage to take a step that feels uncertain, albeit in line with their goals. And as much as we change in our day-to-day lives, our goals can also change! Naturally, the focus of therapy should ideally shift in tandem with these changes.

Of course, there are therapists that specialize in working with certain types of issues that have historically brought people to therapy such as trauma, abuse, or severe and persistent mental illness. But the therapy space can also be for people dealing with grief and loss, life transitions, career changes, anger management issues, anxiety, depression, burnout, and so much more. People can grow in their ability to communicate in a healthy, assertive manner, exercise conflict resolution skills, regulate emotions, engage in healthy relationships, set boundaries, or prioritize self-care.

It can be scary to take the leap into therapy, especially given the stigma historically associated with having a therapist or being in counseling. Fortunately, this stigma is beginning to change as many realize the benefit that this process can have for anyone who is willing to engage in the process! It does not just have to be for what any particular individual would identify as a “crisis” or “significant problem.” It does not have to be reserved only for issues that clients feel that they cannot handle on their own, although that certainly is a good reason to get plugged into the therapy process! It is simply a space for one to meet with an unbiased third party and to be empowered to pursue the desired change or growth. Everyone deserves the chance to feel supported and empowered. Meeting with a therapist can be a great way to experience that for yourself. The choice is yours!