Have you ever been curious about therapy? Most of us know someone who has been in therapy or counseling as almost half of us will see a therapist at some point. According to recent research by the Barna Group, 42% of U.S. adults have seen a counselor at some point, while 36% are open to it.
What does a therapist or counselor do?
What happens during a counseling session can be as diverse as each client. A great therapist will take a client-centered approach. This means they will create an empathic environment where the client can discover his or her own answers.
This includes following the client’s lead—listening to what is currently working and not working in that person’s life and what they would like to achieve out of therapy. With this information, a therapist will support the client in creating a treatment plan, or a road map, for how the client and therapist are going to work together to meet their particular needs.
Therapists are also trained to diagnose disorders. Some of the most common mental health disorders seen by therapists are depression and anxiety. Many times, having a name and understanding of what you are feeling can make a big difference.
A great therapist will be informed by the diagnosis and not limited by the diagnosis. That is to say, a diagnosis can help create some landmarks and trails on the road map to healing—but there is still an infinite number of directions to take in the healing process.
Therapists can be trained in many different modalities of healing. Some of them are very directive while others are exploratory. Counseling sessions can involve much more than just talking. Many therapists utilize art, music, movement and play in partnership with more traditional approaches. The social science field is always developing new and innovative strategies with empirical evidence to support the healing professions and those needing their care and help.
Why do people see counselors?
People come to counseling for many different reasons.
Often, people seek out support in dealing with major life transitions, like marriage, birth, divorce, retirement or the death of a loved one. Sometimes people would like assistance in moving powerfully through a difficult or traumatic experience in their lives.
Many Utahns are looking for relief in dealing with and facing their addictions or thought of suicide. Other people might notice that they have been feeling “blah” for far too long and would like to get to the source of it all.
Last but not least, some people come to counseling because it is a place that they can say all the things that they think and feel but worry about saying to anyone else. Sometimes people just need another person to bear witness to their struggles, and to know that they are understood and cared about.
How long does therapy take?
This is an important and valid question. Most people will ask this question at some point in their treatment. The answer is always very relative and varied. There are no crystal balls to consult on how long it will take a person to meet the goals they have set in their counseling program.
Each person moves at their own pace. As a very general rule, one should plan to spend at least 3-6 months with their therapist. Most insurance companies cover approximately 30 sessions a year with a therapist.
How do I find the right therapist for me?
You want to do your research when looking for a therapist that is right for you. Many people consider the amount of education or experience of a counselor.
Some people are looking for a therapist that have specialized training in particular healing modalities. Other people want someone who is close to them in proximity, affordable and/or takes their insurance.
Many people seek out a counselor that was recommended by someone they trust. Whatever you are looking for, it is important that you find a therapist that is right for you.
The number one sign of a counseling program’s success is based on the relationship between you and your counselor.
You want to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist. It is important that your counselor occurs as credible and in sync with you. If you find yourself working with a therapist that doesn’t feel quite right—bring it up! Therapists and counselors are trained to have these conversations.
Many times, people are able to work out the dynamics of their relationship with their therapist just by being in communication. This can often lead to an even stronger therapeutic bond. And, if the counselor just isn’t a good fit, they will often be able to refer you to someone who might be a better match for your circumstances.No matter what you are facing in life, we would love to support you in your healing journey. If you’d like to learn more about how we help our clients resolve their concerns and challenges from the past, to then go on to create the lives they love, give us a call!
Recent Comments