The Top 10 Truths about Therapy in Seattle.
You’ve thought about starting therapy and have looked into a few people in Seattle. You’re curious about what therapy is really like. You’ve heard about it from friends and seen it on tv. Here are a list of truths that can be helpful to keep in mind.
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Top Truths:
Therapy is relational: We know from research that the main predictor of change in therapy is rooted in the relationship. Therapy provides a safe attachment space, private and non-judgemental for people to cultivate healing practices they can then take out into their regular lives.
Therapy is interactive: Therapy takes 2+ people. My work with clients is highly collaborative and interactive. It’s not simply the therapist telling the client what to do or just listening.
Therapy is an investment: Therapy costs time and money. It isn’t a quick fix. True change takes some time, dedication and patience. This is something to consider when questioning starting therapy, do I have the time, energy, and resources to dedicate to this commitment? Part of the way I make it more accessible for my clients is using telehealth. This frees them up from having to factor in drive time and I can reach clients in more rural areas of the state.
Therapy is confidential: Few relationships, other than a priest or a lawyer provide the legal and ethical protection of confidentiality that a therapeutic relationship provides. Therapy can provide this safe, private space for you to explore what you need to move forward.
Change can be uncomfortable: The road to sustainable, lasting, meaningful change can be uncomfortable in the moment. Think about a stretch you haven’t done in a while or a relationship that hasn’t been tended to in a minute. Therapy can be like mental stretching for your brain.
Therapy can be hard but should be overall a positive experience: Even though change can be uncomfortable and hard at times, it’s our job as therapists to make sure you stay in the threshold of what you’re able to tolerate. We may push you at times, but we ultimately want to promote a safe and caring environment.
Your therapist cares: People don’t get into this profession because they don’t care. Therapists are actively thinking about their clients, especially when planning treatment and how best to help them reach their goals.
Don’t go with the ‘cheapest’ option: It’s important you see someone who works with your specific issues. Be weary of big companies that can offer cheap services and may make money off of selling your private information (yes, breaking confidentiality).
Not all providers are the same: Each person has a unique education, life experiences, and professional development. It’s important to do your research and find someone who you gel with and fits your unique needs.
You don’t want your provider having to see tons of clients: At it’s core, this job is relational and to truly be attentive and tuned into our clients we can’t have an infinite amount of sessions in a day. Over time, most providers know what number of sessions per day they feel comfortable at doing their best work. You don’t want your provider having to see more clients than they feel they can effectively work with in a day. I know I can provide better, more tailored services when I have a limited amount of clients. Our jobs also include work outside of session such as marketing, documentation, continuing education, networking, consulting, and many more activities.
I hope this helps you find the right therapist in Seattle. If you are still feeling stuck, feel free to call me at 206-965-9885 or schedule a free 15 minute consultation on my website. I’d be happy to hear about what is happening and help direct you to the right person. If you are looking therapy in Seattle, check out my specialties: infertility, pregnancy loss, medical trauma, health issues, and grief.
Check out my other blog posts about finding a therapist in Seattle:
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