Getting Past the Stigma of Therapy

Going to therapy doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong with someone.

-Just because a couple goes to couples therapy, doesn’t mean their marriage is on the rocks.
-Just because a family seeks family counseling, doesn’t mean their family is dysfunctional.

Let’s get past the assumption that something is always wrong with someone. Let’s fight the stigma surrounding therapy. The reality is that counseling works and most, if not all people, need counseling at some point in their lives.

We are all human and we all are living imperfectly in an imperfect world. We don’t have all the answers all the time. That’s where counseling is helpful. Not to say counselors have all the answers and are just going to go tell you exactly what you need to do, that’s not the case at all. Counselors listen and help you sort facts and feelings so you can confidently go out in the world and live the life you were created to live.

Here are some other reasons to consider therapy:

• needing help navigating parenthood

• job transitions

• wanting to connect more deeply and intimately with each other

• strengthening communication skills at home or work

• sorting through grief

• adjusting to a new school or teacher

• learning how to deepen friendships (I’m not saying drag your friends to therapy with you, go for yourself)

• just to check in to stay on track

• feeling anxious and not sure why

• having trouble sleeping and not sure why

• life is great, you know you are blessed beyond measure, but you are often inexplicably “on edge” or “out of sorts”

• having feelings of being stuck

• finding yourself retracing your steps or replaying conversations in your head

• having trouble forgiving someone

What if you believe someone you love and care about may need therapy?

Here are some ways you can lovingly encourage a friend or loved one to seek counseling:

• start by bringing it up in a comfortable or private situation (an intervention is often the wrong way to do it unless you have the help and guidance of a professional group therapist)

• share your own experience with therapy (Never been? Maybe consider going yourself, before suggesting it.)

• clarify your motives for wanting them to seek help

• be gentle in your approach

• offer to help find a good fit (but don’t do it for them) Counseling will not work if you want it more than they do.

What if someone refuses to go to therapy?

The first step is—go to therapy by yourself. The reason for this is that we have seen MANY occasions where, in marriage in particular, one spouse begins to change and make improvements. In turn, this provides motivation or stirs curiosity for the other spouse to come in.

This is also particularly helpful for parents of adult or adolescent children. A good dose of family counseling often helps parents sort through next steps with their children and learn how to be their best when their children need them most.

You won’t always convince someone to go to therapy or stay in therapy after they have started. But therapy can help you learn better boundaries with the person so you can be more appropriately present for them.

What will the first appointment be like?

This depends on the therapist you choose. But here at Harvest, we like to have you fill out all paperwork and intake forms prior to the first appointment so that the appointment is more productive and meaningful. This allows you more time to speak and tell your story. Then, the counselor will explain what the future sessions will be like and what they want to tackle first. They will also make recommendations for future sessions and possibly give you homework to try outside the office.

Remember, counseling is a relationship with another human being, they are not robots. It allows for an opportunity to learn how to be in relationship with another person and take it into our daily lives. Counseling can be fun, scary and sad just like everyday life, but the insight gained in sessions can help us navigate the feelings and situations in a more healthy way.

ARE YOU NEEDING TO MOVE FORWARD IN LIFE OR WANT TO HELP SOMEONE MOVE FORWARD IN LIFE?

Harvest Counseling & Wellness is a mental health counseling practice in Argyle, Texas. We provide therapy for couples, individuals, and families are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, abuse, and grief. Our office is located near Denton, Highland Village, Flower Mound, Lantana, Roanoke, & Justin. If you are looking for a therapist in Denton or surrounding areas, contact us today for a complimentary phone consultation, 940-294-7061.