Therapy, not what you expected.
When you hear the word, “therapy”, many different thoughts and feelings may rush through your mind causing an influx of different ideas and narratives regarding what therapy will be like if you tried it. Maybe you have past experiences that have caused you to believe that therapy just isn’t for you, or the “right therapist” isn’t out there.
I always encourage clients to shop around for therapists, and not settle until they have found someone who makes them feel extremely comfortable with sharing, and confidence that they will receive actual help.
With each of my clients, I have received positive feedback in regards to their comfort level when working with me. There are times when I wonder, “am I helping them?”, “am I good enough for them?”, “do I need to find them a more suitable therapist who may have more expertise in their area of conflict?”. Even I experience doubt, or imposter syndrome. What I have learned is that one of my skills that clients thank me for is the level of comfort and warmth that I provide throughout treatment. I believe that is one of my gifts that I have always strived to share with people, whether they are strangers, or my clients.
This is why I fully believe,
1) do not give up on yourself when looking for help, you do not need to go through this alone.
2) there is the right therapist out there for you, you just have to believe that you can attract the right one. As long as you continue to put effort in meeting with professionals that stand out to you when reading their bio’s or watching their videos.
3) Know that the #1 indicator for successful therapy outcomes is your therapeutic alliance with your therapist. Meaning, comfort and safety come first, and that is my main priority for my clients.
Good luck out there and don’t give up! Therapy can be a GREAT experience for people. Even for those that have been through negative experience’s with therapists in the past, it just means you haven’t met the right one for you yet.
With love and encouragement, I hope that you continue to prioritize your mental health and well-being. With the right therapist, you can find the support that you deserve.
-Pauline
