My father’s reaction to my career choice as a psychotherapist was not the ideal response I was hoping for. He said, “You’re going to need a psychologist if you plan on studying psychology!” Doesn’t sound very supportive, right? My response? “Absolutely, Dad! Everyone needs a therapist/psychologist.”
I still stand firmly by my response. Unfortunately, there’s still a stigma about seeking mental help with most people and cultures. The following are some of the responses I’ve heard:
- “Only crazy people go…I’m not crazy!”
- “Our family business is our business.”
- “What are they going to ask me, how I feel?”
- “I don’t need therapy, I know what my issues are.”
- “I can’t afford it.”
Now I’d like to give some feedback. The terms “crazy” and “normal” are subjective. My idea of crazy and normal may differ from yours and vice versa. But imagine if you had the opportunity to just spew out whatever was bothering you (we all do it, it’s called venting), however, now you’re doing it with a professional who can objectively give you the insight your friends and/or partner can’t. Let’s be honest, some of them may also by tired of it by now. Some of us do it more often than not.
Maybe you come across the same thing that keeps happening to you and you can’t figure out why, a therapist can assist in unveiling destructive patterns, behaviors, thoughts, etc. while giving you the tools necessary to change and grow as a person. You may know what your issues are but would they still be issues if you knew how to deal with them? What if this applies to the family as a whole and how well you function together? The holidays don’t have to be dreaded or miserable.
“How does that make you feel?” Running joke in most movies and sitcoms whenever therapy is mentioned. Yes, we are definitely going to ask you how you feel but I assure you that’s not all we do! Our job is to help people, improve lives as well as save lives when we can. With that said, the confidentiality of your sessions is always at the forefront of our priorities. Confidentiality is breached if there is imminent danger to self and/or others, elder abuse and/or child abuse.
It’s also very important to feel comfortable with your therapist since you share a lot about yourself. You may not like your therapist, but don’t let that discourage you from finding one you will. You are paying this person and deserve to get the services you pay for. Can it be costly? Yes and no. If paying out of pocket isn’t possible, there are other options. Try going through your insurance and finding a provider, mental health agencies offer services and resources, therapists with sliding scales, group therapy, or school programs to name a few. Let’s face it, we’re not always spending wisely on going out, splurging on new gadgets, beauty, and cars to name a few but don’t you owe it to yourself to invest in a better you? Something to think about.
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