For many people, the word therapy conjures up images of lying on a couch and spilling their deepest, darkest secrets to a stranger.

While it is true that therapy does involve talking about personal issues, there is much more to it than that. The goal of treatment is to help people understand and manage their emotions so they can lead healthier, happier lives.

Therapy is also not just for people with mental health disorders. Anyone struggling with stress, anxiety, or other life challenges can benefit from therapy.

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about therapy, which prevents people who could benefit from it from ever seeking help.

If more people took the time to understand how therapy works,  it might change how our culture views mental health.

If you’re considering therapy, here is a rundown of what therapy is, what it isn't, and what you can expect.

Therapy isn't a quick fix

Mental health is complex. Some issues may take weeks, months, or years to navigate through.

And although it may seem counterintuitive, things can get worse before they start to improve. You may reach your goals slower than you hoped or discover even deeper issues than you initially realized.

Therapy is a journey that takes commitment and effort and can be a powerful tool for personal growth.

Therapy is not one-size-fits-all

Every person's experience and life journey are unique, and treatment should be tailored to their specific needs, goals, and lifestyle. 

At Paper Cranes Counseling, you will be matched with a therapist who takes the time to get to know you and your goals. Your therapist will create a customized treatment plan that fits your individual needs.

Therapy isn't easy

Therapy can be a complex process.

It requires you to confront your fears, emotions, and thoughts head-on. It can be painful to revisit old traumas and talk about the things holding you back in life.

However, therapy can also be incredibly rewarding. It can help you better understand yourself and learn new ways of coping with your problems. It can also give you the strength to make positive changes in your life.

Therapy may also seem intimidating.

Many people feel embarrassed or ashamed about seeking help for mental health issues, but therapy should never feel like a punishment. Instead, it should be a safe place to explore complicated feelings and help you make the changes you want in your life.

At Paper Cranes Counseling, our team is committed to providing a caring, supportive environment for all our clients, no matter their challenges. We understand it takes courage to seek help, and we'll be here every step of the way for you.

Therapy isn't only for crisis situations

There’s a common misconception that you only go to therapy when something is wrong, but the reality is that therapy can benefit anyone looking to make life changes or proactively work on self-improvement and personal growth.

It’s an opportunity to learn coping skills for stress, better communication with others, and figure out how you respond in certain situations.

Therapy is also a form of self-care.  It’s an investment in understanding yourself and helping you become a stronger, healthier version of yourself.

Now that we've covered some things that therapy is not, let's explore what therapy really is.

Therapy is a safe space

Except for threats of self-harm or harm to others, what you say in therapy stays in therapy. We strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can talk openly and honestly about their thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged or criticized.

You should feel empowered within the therapeutic relationship to talk about things that you may not want to say or find difficult to talk about with others. It is crucial that you feel comfortable speaking openly so that you can get the most out of the experience.

Therapy is a collaborative effort

Therapy is a collaborative process between a mental health professional and a client. During the sessions, the therapist will provide support, guidance, and tools to help you work through whatever struggles you are experiencing. The therapist may also offer feedback about how your behaviors impact your life.

Your therapist will not be the one to ultimately determine your treatment goals.

Although the therapist-client relationship is collaborative, it's ultimately up to the client to decide what changes they want. 

Your therapist is in your corner, dedicated to your well-being, and will guide and support you as you work on yourself.

Therapy is a reality check

Part of your therapist's job is getting you out of your comfort zone.  It's not easy, but therapy can help you look at yourself and your life differently. It can be a reality check, reminding you that it's okay to take time for yourself and to make changes in your life if needed.

Therapists play an essential role in helping us confront our challenges and grow into our best selves. They push us to explore difficult emotions and thought patterns and guide us toward healthier ways of living. 

They may also call you out on any poor choices or destructive thoughts and behaviors and tell us how you can change your thoughts and actions to empower yourself and be an agent of change in your own lives.

Therapy is a journey

Therapy can also be an incredibly enriching experience. It is an opportunity to understand ourselves better and learn new tools for coping with challenges.

In many ways, therapy is like a map: it helps us to see where we have been and where we want to go. Your therapist will provide guidance and support, but the decisions about which path to take are ultimately up to you. Embarking on this journey can help you find greater peace, joy, and purpose in your life.

Therapy isn't a cure-all, a guaranteed success, and it won't change the behaviors and actions of other people. Instead, therapy is an opportunity for you to learn and grow.

Your therapist will help you explore personal experiences, feelings, and thoughts. They will encourage you to be more honest with yourself and become more self-aware of your emotions, behaviors, and beliefs.

The most successful therapy sessions occur when the therapist and client have a solid therapeutic alliance and a cooperative and trusting working relationship.

We want to ensure you have the best possible experience, so we will help you find a therapist that is a good fit for you.

Our skilled therapists at Paper Cranes Counseling are ready to help you on your road to a more enjoyable life! We also offer telehealth services to anyone living in California. Contact us to schedule your free phone consultation today!

Shavonne James, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Therapist and founder of Paper Cranes Counseling, a private group practice connecting wellness seekers with culturally-affirming, holistic, care. They have openings for individuals that are working through matters of identity, interpersonal relationships, and the inner child. Contact them at www.papercranescounseling.com