Do I Really Need Therapy?

One of the more commonly asked questions I get as a therapist is some version of, "Do I really need to be here? And how long does this take exactly?"

TL;DR Therapy is indeed hard, and for it to be most effective, you'll need to feel ready for some discomfort. From my perspective, the benefits outweigh the longer-term risks of being miserable or continuing to struggle alone. As for how long it takes, you may not like this answer, but it does depend on several variables.

As far as needing therapy, when it comes to outpatient therapy, most times it's optional and completely your choice. In some cases, you can be mandated to therapy by outside parties; all clients I work with choose to come to therapy to improve some aspect of their lives.

I get it; starting therapy can feel really hard and scary. Therapy indeed brings up many emotions, some of which are uncomfortable. There are benefits to being less aware of yourself and your feelings, and there are reasons most of us spend much of our time trying to avoid emotions. (Check back in soon for another blog about emotions and avoidance!)

When I start with a new client, whether or not they've been to therapy before, I'm going to ask them a few pointed questions: 1) What are your goals? At the end of therapy, what would you like to be different? 2) How long are you willing to spend on this? How much money are you willing to spend? 3) Are you willing to tolerate some discomfort along the way? Therapy is like going on a hike together. As the therapist, I may show you some routes, suggest when to take breaks, and otherwise be there as someone who will stay with you on the unexpected, difficult sections. You'll still lead the way and decide which side trails you're willing to go down. Some hikes are direct, others have more of a meandering feel. Which hike we go on will vary from session to session.

Are you ready to get started? Book your initial free 15-minute consultation with Elizabeth to see if it's a good fit for you!