What Is Therapy, Who Is It For, and Why Go?
What Is Therapy, Who Is It For, and Why Go?
As a community, we have done a great job of starting to talk about mental health and recognizing the signs, especially when someone is in crisis. However, for those who may not be in crisis, it can sometimes feel like they don’t need or shouldn’t access mental health supports.
This is an area we would like to spend some time connecting on: What is therapy, who is it for, and why go?
What Is Therapy?
Therapy is a space for anyone who wants support in improving or maintaining their mental health and overall well-being. Therapy can be helpful for someone experiencing a crisis, but it can also support people who are dealing with everyday challenges or changes in their lives. This might include:
Stress or feeling overwhelmed
Anger or difficulty managing emotions
Experiences of trauma
Financial stress
Feeling lost or disconnected within your community
A lack of support
Feeling like you are not finding joy or fulfillment in your life
Challenges in relationships, work, or other areas of life
Therapy doesn't have to be something you seek only when things have reached a crisis point. It can also be a proactive way to check in with yourself, understand what you are experiencing, and build tools to support your mental health and well-being.
How Do You Know If You Need Therapy?
One way to think about this is to ask yourself how you are functioning in the key areas of your life.
You might consider areas such as:
Relationships
Career and work
Physical and mental health
Fun and recreation
Finances
Spirituality or religion
Personal growth
Your physical environment
These areas can provide a helpful baseline for checking in with yourself. If you notice that you are struggling or not functioning as you normally would in one or more of these areas, it may be worth reaching out to a mental health provider.
Sometimes, reaching out early can help prevent things from becoming more difficult down the road.
How Can You Find a Mental Health Provider?
Psychology Today: Search their online directory for providers in your area.
Your medical doctor: Ask about recommendations or referrals.
Friends or family: Someone you trust may be able to share their experience with therapy.
Your insurance provider: Check which mental health providers are covered by your plan.
Therapy is a personal journey and finding someone you can be yourself and vulnerable with is an important part of the process. It is okay if the first person you meet with isn't the right fit.
