Therapy/Counseling
What Can I Expect From Therapy?
By J Gifford
Jul 19, 2007

You may be entering therapy for the first time and not have a sense of what needs to happen
other than you want to feel better. It is important to express this as well. Here is a list of what
we have seen to be true for many people about therapy:

--It takes time to establish a trusting relationship with a therapist.

--It is important to go at your own pace and not overwhelm yourself.

--We all resist change. Don't be surprised if you are tempted to quit right before some real
changes or breakthroughs are about to happen.

--Becoming more healthy and balanced can feel very unfamiliar and uncomfortable at first.

--Being committed to therapy will change your life. Be prepared to feel some loss from this.

--Others may resist your changes and growth and will need time to adapt.

--Therapy is hard work.

--Your therapist is not perfect and will make mistakes. Hopefully he or she will acknowledge
and take responsibility for those mistakes.

--Some therapy is short term (usually focusing on one issue and situational) and other therapy
may be longer term (more than one or complex issues.)

--Expect your therapist to have good boundaries, avoid dual relationships, be ethical, and treat
you with respect. If not, find another therapist.

Remember that therapy, in the hands of a skilled therapist, is a powerful and life-changing experience.
It has been shown to be effective for a variety of illnesses and problems. If you need therapy and work
as an active participant in your own treatment, you can expect it will be well worth the time and money
you invest.

Find a licensed therapist here: http://www.find-a-therapist.com