How Does Therapy Work?

Wondering if therapy works? Or maybe you've heard it works and you're wondering how and why. Here are some common questions about therapy and what you can expect when starting this journey:

What should you expect when starting therapy?

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When you start therapy, it's helpful to know what to expect. While therapy has long-established effectiveness for all kinds of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, anger, addiction, etc., it is not a magic bullet. Nor is therapy a quick fix. It takes time and work, and sometimes there are setbacks along the way. But if you're willing to put in the effort, therapy can help you overcome many different kinds of struggles and increase your overall level of happiness.

The first meeting is usually spent talking about what brought you in for therapy (your symptoms or issues) and what kind of treatment would be most helpful for that issue. The therapist will also ask questions to learn more about your life so they can recommend the best kind of treatment based on your needs.

In subsequent sessions, you will work with your therapist to start addressing the issues more directly. This might look light talking about it, doing experiential exercises, creating action plans, problem-solving, delving into the past, working towards a new future, learning new skills and tools, or any number of other approaches. There are many types of therapy, and the most skilled therapists will employ different strategies at different times to help you achieve results.

Does therapy actually work?

Yes! We wouldn’t have devoted our careers to it if it didn’t. The evidence for the effectiveness of therapy is overwhelming. However, it’s important to note that it’s most effective to find a therapist who you feel comfortable with and whose personality and methods reflect your own values and goals. If you feel like your therapist isn’t working out, there’s nothing wrong with trying someone different! In order for therapy to work your therapist should not only be skilled but also compassionate, understanding, open-minded, non-judgmental, and supportive.

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Therapy also requires a certain level of effort and dedication in order for it to work. It can sometimes be hard work, and it might not always be comfortable. You might have to face some difficult feelings before you can have some freedom from them. If you are willing to be honest, vulnerable, and make the changes that feel right to you in your life, then you will most likely see good results.

Do I have to have a mental health diagnosis to go to therapy?

No. While it's true that a lot of people go to therapy because they have a mental health diagnosis, therapy is really for anyone who wants to work on some aspect of their life! If you feel like you want a mental health diagnosis, you can ask your therapist about that. If you don’t like the idea of getting a diagnosis, that is also a helpful thing to discuss!

Diagnosis is a tricky topic among therapists.

Most therapists agree that diagnoses can sometimes cause more harm than good, especially in situations where people feel stigmatized. However, there are times when a diagnosis can give someone a sense of hope and understanding. For example, if you’ve been dealing with obsessive worrying and panic attacks all your life, it might feel relieving to get a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder because this is something that millions of people around the world have also struggled with and there are many research-backed strategies to improve it.

A diagnosis is simply another way of understanding your concerns and can help you get organized in your treatment plan. If you go through insurance to pay for your sessions, your therapist will be required by the insurance company to provide some type of diagnosis in order to work with you.

The therapist isn't the expert on you, you are.

While therapists might have extensive training, they are still just regular people. No one can know you as well as you. A good therapist will position themselves as your equal and ally, letting you know that ultimately you are in charge. The goal of therapy is to help you become the ultimate expert on yourself, and in the long term become your own therapist.

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At its core, therapy is more than just talking out problems with someone else; it's working towards finding solutions through self-awareness, self-reflection; and self-compassion. It’s about finding hope, inspiration, courage, and resilience. It’s both about fully accepting who you are and changing the things in your life that aren’t serving you. It’s about learning new tools, strategies, and skills to cope with the difficulties of life.

How do I start in-person and online therapy in North Carolina?

Therapy is a lot of work, but it’s worth it. The benefits are real, and if you can find a good therapist who matches your needs and style, then you’re on the right track to great mental health. Our team of caring therapists would be honored to support you from our Asheville-based practice. If you are ready to explore if therapy is right for you, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Reach out to us to schedule a free consultation.

  2. Meet with a caring therapist

  3. Start addressing the mental health concerns that affect you most!

Other Services Offered With Strive On Counseling

As Asheville therapists, we understand that every individual has a unique set of mental health needs. This is why we are happy to offer many forms of therapy. Our services include individual counseling, anxiety treatment, EMDR trauma therapy, therapy for men’s issues, mindfulness, Buddhist counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and online therapy. We are also happy to offer guided meditations, supplements, a list of books and other useful resources, and online courses. If you would like more information about any of these services, please reach out today, and start therapy in North Carolina!