Are you considering therapy, but you are afraid? This is a common feeling. Throughout my career, I have talked to many potential clients during consultations who shared that they wanted to start the process, but they were simply anxious and afraid. Sometimes these people pushed through, and sometimes they chose not to follow through. I also have had clients tell me that they had been wanting to start therapy for many years before they actually committed to the process.
Here’s the truth:
The process really won’t hurt. I mean…sure, it may bring a bit of discomfort, but you will experience it in a safe space. The discomfort will also help propel you to your healing journey.
Therapy can help you uncover things that you may be avoiding. The psychologist/psychiatrist, Carl Jung stated, “What you resist persists”. The great poet, Shawn Carter AKA Jay Z, stated, “You can’t heal what you never reveal”. So, in a nutshell, once you bring these things to the surface, you will then be able to begin your healing journey.
It is a therapist’s job to create a self-space filled with empathy, genuine concern, and unconditional positive regard (special shoutout to the GREAT Carl Rogers for putting this into words). You will not go through this alone. As a therapist, I instantly become a cheerleader, guide, and facilitator to help clients manage their discomfort to get to the other side of healing. I find a balance between encouraging clients to go deeper, but not pushing the client too far too fast.
“You can’t heal what you never reveal”- Shawn Carter
Therapy can be hard work, but if you put in the work, and allow your therapist to guide the way, it is feasible! The process is rewarding. Build a healthy therapeutic relationship with your therapist and then trust yourself! You can do it.
You got this! Have I ever lied to you? Why would I start now?
I find a balance between encouraging clients to go deeper, but not pushing the client too far too fast.
You got this!!!!
Until next time,
Dr. E
