Psychological therapy is a process that involves working with a mental health professional to address emotional, psychological or behavioral problems. Throughout therapeutic sessions, individuals are expected to achieve greater self-knowledge, develop skills to cope with challenges, and improve their emotional well-being. However, it is important to have realistic expectations about what therapy can and cannot achieve. In this article, we will explore what you can and cannot expect from psychological therapy.
What to expect from psychological therapy
1. A safe and confidential space
One of the main aspects that can be expected from psychological therapy is a safe and confidential environment. Psychotherapists are trained to provide a space where patients feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, emotions, and concerns without fear of being judged. Confidentiality is essential in therapy, as it allows individuals to open up and explore aspects of their lives that may be difficult to share with others.
2. Self-exploration and self-knowledge
Another important aspect of therapy is the opportunity to explore and better understand oneself. During therapeutic sessions, individuals have the opportunity to reflect on their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationship patterns. Through this self-exploration, people can gain greater self-knowledge, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies to more effectively manage the challenges they face in their daily lives.
3. Tools and strategies for coping with challenges
Psychotherapists are trained to teach their patients skills and strategies that allow them to cope with the problems and challenges that arise in their lives. These tools may include coping techniques, communication skills, relaxation techniques, among others. As therapy progresses, individuals learn to use these tools effectively to manage stress, regulate their emotions, and improve their overall well-being.
4. Emotional and empathic support
In therapy, patients can expect to receive emotional and empathic support from their therapist. This type of support can be essential for those who feel alone, overwhelmed or uneasy. The therapist provides a space where individuals can freely express their feelings, receive validation, and feel heard without judgment. This emotional connection in therapy can be restorative and strengthening for the person's psychological well-being.
What not to expect from psychological therapy
1. Quick fixes and magic formulas
It is important to keep in mind that therapy does not offer quick fixes or magic formulas to solve all of life's problems. The therapeutic process can be complex and require time, effort and commitment on the part of the patient. Significant changes are usually gradual and require continuous work in and out of therapy. Therefore, therapy should not be expected to offer an instant solution to all problems.
2. Complete elimination of emotional distress
While therapy can be effective in relieving emotional distress and improving psychological well-being, it does not guarantee the complete elimination of negative feelings. It is natural to experience a wide range of emotions throughout life, and therapy can help you manage and process these emotions in healthy ways. However, it is important to understand that feeling sad, anxious or stressed in certain circumstances is part of the human experience and cannot be completely eliminated.
3. Changes without personal effort
Therapy can provide support, guidance, and tools for change, but it cannot do the work for the patient. For therapy to be effective, it is necessary for the person to commit to working on their process of change and personal growth. This involves attending scheduled sessions, actively participating in tasks outside the office, and being willing to face challenges and step out of your comfort zone. Therapy is a collaborative process that requires effort and dedication on the part of the patient.
4. Changes in others
It is important to remember that therapy focuses on the personal growth and change of the individual participating in the therapeutic process. Therapy cannot be expected to change other people in the patient's life, such as family, friends, or partners. Although therapy can influence personal relationships and the way one relates to others, the main objective is the personal development and emotional well-being of the individual seeking help.
Conclusions
In summary, psychological therapy is a process in which individuals can expect a safe and confidential space to explore their emotions, develop self-knowledge, acquire tools to face challenges, and receive emotional support from an empathetic therapist. However, therapy should not be expected to offer quick fixes, completely eliminate emotional distress, create change without personal effort, or transform others in the patient's life. Therapy is a gradual process, which requires commitment, effort and time to achieve the desired changes in a person's life.