Are you considering therapy? Here’s what you may want to know before starting sessions.
Are you considering therapy sessions, and feel a bit anxious about starting therapy? Starting therapy can be a transformative and empowering experience. However, it is normal to feel anxious about starting therapy, particularly if it is a completely new experience, a little outside of the comfort zone.
Here are some key things to keep in mind about therapy that may be helpful to know before starting sessions:
1. Therapy Can Be for Everyone
You don’t need to have a “major” issue to seek therapy. Therapy sessions provide a space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and work towards meaningful change that aligns with your goals and what is important to you. For example, sessions could be a space to better understand your anxiety, and develop the tools and lifestyle practices to manage anxiety and develop greater calm and confidence in yourself.
2. Finding the Right Therapist Matters
Therapists have different styles, approaches, and areas of interest. It might take a few tries to find someone you feel comfortable with. Trust and rapport with your therapist are essential for effective therapy. If you’d like to know more information about Harriet, and her style and approach as a therapist, head to the ‘About’ section.
3. Therapy is a Collaborative Process
You and your therapist will work together as a team. Please be open about your goals, challenges, and concerns. Your therapist is there to help guide, empower and support you.
4. Therapy Takes Time
Progress in therapy isn’t always linear. Sometimes, things might feel harder before they improve, especially if you are addressing certain behaviours and thought patterns that have been occurring for a long time and have been used to historically cope with different stressors. Patience and consistency are key in therapy.
5. Confidentiality is Key
Therapy sessions are private and confidential, with a few exceptions (e.g., risks of harm to yourself or others). Your therapist will explain confidentiality at the outset. If you have any questions about confidentiality, feel free to ask your therapist.
7. Be Honest and Open
You don’t have to share everything immediately, but being honest with your therapist helps them understand and support you. Even sharing that you’re feeling hesitant or unsure about therapy and the process can be such valuable information for the therapist, and something you can speak more deeply about. Your therapist may be able to clarify a few things that you may be concerned or worried about.
8. Therapy is Not Just Talking
Sessions generally involve learning the knowledge, tools and techniques to help you process emotions, change certain behavioural patterns, and/or practice new skills. You might also get “homework” to apply what you’re learning in your daily life. Often, the skills and tools learned and applied in therapy, can be used at present and moving forward, for the rest of your life to support you to maintain your physical and psychological wellbeing.
9. It’s Okay to Ask Questions
You can ask your therapist about their qualifications, approach, or anything you’re curious about. This helps build trust and ensure you’re both on the same page.
10. It’s a Sign of Strength, Not Weakness
Seeking therapy means you’re taking steps to invest in yourself and your well-being. It’s an act of courage and self-awareness. The knowledge and skills you develop in therapy, can be taken with you and applied now, and for the rest of your life.
If you’re considering therapy and ready to take the first step in your therapy journey, you are welcome to head to our online bookings page, and book an initial appointment with Harriet.
