Q: What is therapy?

A: Therapy, also known as counseling or psychotherapy, is a confidential and collaborative process between a trained therapist and a client. It provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore and address various emotional, psychological, and life challenges. Therapists use evidence-based techniques to help clients gain insights, develop coping skills, and improve their well-being. Here you can find additional information.

Q: How long does therapy take?

A: The duration of therapy can vary widely depending on individual needs and goals. Some people may find short-term therapy beneficial for specific issues, while others may engage in longer-term therapy for more complex concerns. The length of therapy is a collaborative decision between you and your therapist. Please see here for more information.

Q: Can therapy make you worse?

A: Therapy is designed to support your emotional and mental well-being. It's important to recognize that negative emotions are a natural part of life, and therapy aims to provide you with the skills, perspective, and understanding to help you manage and navigate these emotions effectively. While therapy may sometimes bring up uncomfortable feelings or memories, a therapist will work with you to develop coping strategies and insights to improve your overall well-being. Research states that, on average, 10% of clients get worse after therapy. When you are not feeling well after a few sessions, it is essential to have honest and open conversations with your therapist. The first step is usually working on the therapeutic relationship. If it is not working, referral to another provider might be an option.

Q: How do I choose a therapist?

A: Choosing a therapist is an important decision. Start by considering your specific needs and preferences. Research therapists' credentials, specialties, and experience. Finding someone with whom you feel comfortable and can establish a strong therapeutic rapport is crucial. Don't hesitate to ask questions during an initial consultation to assess whether the therapist fits you. If you like to explore more on the topic, here can be a good start.

Q: How can therapy help me?

A: Therapy offers a range of benefits tailored to individual needs and circumstances. Here are some specific ways in which therapy can be helpful:

1. Understanding and Managing Emotions: Therapy helps in understanding and managing complex emotions like anxiety and depression. For instance, someone struggling with anxiety might learn mindfulness or cognitive restructuring techniques to manage their anxious thoughts and reactions.

2. Improving Relationships: Therapy can assist in resolving conflicts, improving communication, and fostering healthier relationships. For example, couples facing communication issues could learn active listening and conflict resolution skills in couples therapy.

3. Dealing with Trauma: For those who have experienced traumatic events, therapy provides a safe space to process these experiences. An individual who experienced a traumatic event, such as a car accident, might undergo trauma-focused therapy like EMDR to process and reduce the distress associated with that trauma.

4. Personal Growth and Self-Discovery: Therapy encourages self-reflection, leading to greater self-awareness, which is vital in personal development. Individuals feeling stuck in their careers might use therapy to explore their passions and values, leading to a career change that aligns more with their personal goals.

5. Enhancing Coping Skills: Therapy equips you with tools to handle life's challenges more effectively, like stress management, decision-making, and problem-solving. Someone dealing with chronic stress could learn techniques like deep breathing exercises or time management skills.

6. Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence: By addressing underlying issues and reinforcing your strengths, therapy can help improve your self-esteem. A young adult with low self-esteem might work on building self-confidence through cognitive-behavioral therapy by challenging negative beliefs about themselves.

7. Navigating Life Transitions: Therapy can provide support and guidance through significant life changes. An individual grieving the loss of a loved one might receive grief counseling to help them process their emotions and adjust to life without their loved one.

8. Improving Mental Health and Well-being: Therapy improves mental health, leading to a more fulfilling and satisfying life. A person with depression, for example, might participate in regular therapy sessions to learn to identify and change negative thinking patterns, engage in mood-boosting activities, and develop a strong support system.

The effectiveness of therapy largely depends on your active participation and the therapeutic relationship you build with your therapist. Wondering about the “science” behind therapy? See here.

Q: Are therapy sessions confidential?

A: Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Therapists are legally and ethically bound to maintain confidentiality, which means they cannot disclose your information to others without your explicit consent. However, there are some exceptions to confidentiality, such as situations involving harm to yourself or others, which your therapist will discuss with you during your initial session. You can find additional details of Ethical Codes for marriage and family therapists in California here at the CAMFT site.

Resources:

Psychology Today (2024, January 24). Therapy. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/therapy

American Psychological Association (2017, July 31). How long will it take for treatment to work? https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/length-treatment

British Psychological Association (2008, January 7). When therapy causes harm. https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/when-therapy-causes-harm

American Psychological Association (2017, July 31). How do I find a good therapist? https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/finding-good-therapist

Mental Health America (2024, January 24). The science behind therapy. https://mhanational.org/science-behind-therapy