Why therapy isn't a quick fix
A common question I get asked as a Psychology student is, “How does talking to someone solve all problems?” Maybe its the media’s simplified version or the lack of education that is to blame, but it is a common misconception that I find interesting.
By assuming therapy heals all problems by sitting down with a therapist, counsellor or psychologist, many set themselves up to be disappointed by reality. Perhaps not known so widely, therapy is not a one-stop solution to every problem and crisis, nor does it have a linear progression.
Therapy as a process
Think about your childhood when you would fall over and scrape your skin whilst in the playground. Often, the anticipated sting of the antiseptic was dreaded more than the initial pain of the fall.
Healing goes a little something like this. The process of healing is not as simple as putting a bandaid over the wounds and hoping for the best. It is an eye-opening, transformative and collaborative approach in which you need to face the pain to grow through it. This can take the course of many sessions and this is why therapy is a process. It is this very process that equips you with the individualised tools to manage not just the pain of yesterday, but also the challenges you are going to face in the future.
The role of the therapist
Your therapist is not equipped to fix your life’s problems. I don’t believe that anyone can fix such problems. The complete eradication of life’s challenges and hurdles sounds like a fairytale and far from reality. As such, the role of your therapist is to guide you. With understanding, compassion and a passion to support you, your therapist collaborates with you to explore your unique issues, together!
Therapy is a tool for life
Along with the misguided assumption that therapy is a quick fix, there is another misconception that therapy is only for those who are going through a challenge. Whilst it is an amazing support system for tough times, it is not exclusive to any particular group.
We all have a past that has helped shape us into who we are today. Therapy helps us unravel this past and present versions of ourselves and gain a deeper understanding of our mental processes. You don’t need to have experienced life-changing trauma to understand yourself better.
It is not the case that, once acquiring the tools to navigate life’s challenges, you should stop attending therapy. Having periodic check-ins, whenever they suit you best, is a great way to work towards your goals. Think about going to the gym to become stronger. If we achieved our initial desired strength and quit going, we would set ourselves back.
Therapy is a valuable and significant tool for personal growth, development and emotional health, but it is not a quick fix to any challenge. It is a process and journey that can take a while, but it is well worth it.
For our current clients, as well as anybody looking to start with TMP, I encourage you to have an open-mind when approaching therapy. Keep in mind that therapy is a lifelong commitment to ongoing self-improvement and discovery.
Warmest,
Ruchi.