Therapy is a remarkable opportunity for exploring your inner self. For some people, pursuing this invaluable resource sounds daunting, so we have explained how impactful therapy-inspired growth can be for everyone.
Most of us have heard of therapy, but really, what is it, and why do people go to therapy? Often, the first images we imagine are either a typical Freudian setting with a patient lying on a couch somewhere, staring at the ceiling, or a group of people sitting in a circle, sharing stories. Both are correct, but this is not a complete picture and doesn’t explain why therapy is good for you.
If you are interested in self-growth, it’s worth your time to learn about therapy. There are a lot of assumptions surrounding the practice, so here is our take on what therapy is and how it can help.
Types of Therapy
Therapy has progressed since the late 1800s when a specific kind of talk therapy known as psychoanalysis was introduced. People were encouraged to speak about whatever came to their minds, including dreams, desires, and memories. Therapy has continued to evolve over the years, transitioning into more contemporary approaches tailored to meet each clients’ needs and interests.
More modern forms of therapy include art, yoga, nature, and music. These treatments offer alternate forms of communication—outlets where clients can express themselves. This transition to more eclectic therapy moves away from traditional practices and toward more culturally conscious approaches.
Why Is Therapy Important?
Although there are many therapy options, all these approaches share a common theme—a powerful journey through self-exploration. Clients learn more about themselves, and their relationship with themselves, throughout the course of treatment. Still, many people might be wondering—what does this relationship mean?
When clients begin therapy, Humantold encourages people to think of the client-therapist relationship as a journey together. Clients learn about themselves (both the side they like and the side they are less comfortable with) as they explore what makes them unique individuals. They have to put on their investigative caps, assessing their relationships with others. This includes learning coping and defense mechanisms, reflecting on personal thinking, and exploring behavioral patterns.
Therapy can be a scary, and occasionally, an uncomfortable journey. Clients may end up confronting their biggest fears and insecurities, but it's a vital step in strengthening their relationship with themselves.
Above all, we encourage you to consider the following: How is your relationship with yourself?
Why Do People Go to Therapy?
Our lives are full of distractions, whether it's our work, school, or taking care of others. We have a multitude of responsibilities that we face each day. Although these tasks and obligations are important, they can certainly take away from being in touch with ourselves—especially our emotions and thoughts.
Therapy Questions to Ask Yourself
Ever wonder why you are exhausted all day, yet once your head hits the pillow at night, a million thoughts start running through your head?
Well, it may just be that this is the first moment your body and mind have a chance to slow down and process the things you have encountered throughout your day. Find ways to reflect more often so that bedtime is not your only chance to unwind.
As you evaluate your relationship with yourself, here are some therapy questions to consider:
- Am I often running on autopilot?
- How often do I stop to check in with myself and ask how I am feeling throughout my day?
- Am I as caring and accepting with myself as I am toward others (friends, peers, loved ones)?
- Do I feel fulfilled? Why or why not?
- What am I feeling at this very moment?
So Why Go to Therapy?
Starting therapy, or even considering it, can be a scary thing! It takes vulnerability, strength, and courage to put yourself out there—however, there are so many rewards.
The therapeutic process is rarely linear. There will be sessions where you feel relieved and joyous, and other times when you experience negative emotions. All these outcomes are okay. Those little bumps along the road slowly lead to progression and self-growth. What have you always wanted to work on with yourself that you keep putting off?
Nothing can be more inspiring when you are going through a rough patch than hearing others' experiences and journeys toward self-exploration.
To understand this process more, Humantold reached out to the community—everyday people doing their best to learn and grow—via social media to ask about their experiences surrounding therapy. They shared their answers to the question, “Why is therapy a good idea?” Here are some interesting responses:
- People have the opportunity to focus on themselves rather than on others.
- It helps me understand myself and others better.
- Because we are not taught how to identify our feelings or how to handle them.
- It helps detach for a little while and to clear your mind.
- To explore your thoughts and feelings—express yourself on a new level.
- It helps me be at peace with the past and hopeful for the future by improving my mental health.
- Therapy allows you to open up and see things from a different side. Find out new things.
- It helped me start the process of breaking down generational trauma cycles.
- Therapy is an exercise for my mind, like the gym is exercise for my body.
- It gives you professional advice that friends or family may not be able to provide.
- Therapy allows us to uncover what we need to heal and live an intentional life.
We would love to hear about how therapy has impacted or touched you, or the lives of others around you. It’s an opportunity where you can truly uncover the most intimate parts of yourself and your identities. Humantold hopes this has encouraged you to either seek therapy for the first time, continue the work you are manifesting, or evaluate if your current therapist makes you happy.
Change can be good, especially when it means continuing a path of self-exploration that strengthens your relationship with yourself.
How to Start Therapy
If you are ready for therapy, Humantold can help you find the right therapist. Exploring your options will guide you to the person that is the best possible culture fit—an essential ingredient for you to feel heard, appreciated, and comfortable. This is an important process, so please take your time and be thoughtful. Everyone feels overwhelmed sometimes—and it's always the right time to reach out.