Ever wonder what goes into a therapist’s head? It’s often seen as a mysterious process since it’s a collaborative journey to healing. It involves trust, science, and human connection to make the healing work. With that in mind, there are things that your therapists hope you know, and here are 9 of them.
9. Therapy Physically Changes Your Brain in Just Two Months
Therapy isn’t just all talk; it’s a workout for your brain. A 2024 Stanford Medicine research reveals that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy creates a measurable change in your brain circuits in as little as two months. Basically, it means that you’re rewiring your brain to gain better problem-solving and emotional regulation. So hang in there!
8. The “Fit” With Your Therapist Matters More Than You Think
You may have heard stories about “fitting in” with your therapists, with some canceling the sessions if they feel like their therapist isn’t a fit for them. There’s a thing called therapeutic alliance, which means the relationship you have with your therapist. It’s more than just liking them, as you should have a feeling of being safe, understood, and respected. Don’t be afraid to explore and find a therapist who feels right for you.
7. You Might Feel Worse Before You Feel Better
Starting therapy can feel like opening a closet you’ve locked for years. You see things get messy before they’re organized. That’s what starting therapy feels like, and it’s normal. Confronting your old patterns and difficult emotions is uncomfortable at first. It’s a normal and necessary part of your healing journey as it will bring you change.
6. Therapists Don’t Have the Answers As They Help You Find Yours
Contrary to what everyone thinks, therapists won’t give you advice. Instead, their role is to act as a skilled guide to help you explore your thoughts and experiences to show your truths. They may provide the tools and new perspectives, but the real work is from you to empower you and be your own expert.
5. Therapy Isn’t Just for Crisis
Like annual checkups to the doctor, therapy is for emotional maintenance. You don’t need to be at your worst to get the benefits of therapy. You can even build your skills and help with your personal growth from it. Even when things are going well on your end, you can still seek therapy.
4. Crying is Actually Productive
The tears that you’re holding back might be the key to your breakthrough. Research proves that crying in therapy triggers the release of your oxytocin and endorphins, which eases the pain and improves your mood. A 2024 APA study also states that crying is a “window of opportunity” between the patient and therapists for their bond, as it promotes healing.
3. Progress Isn’t a Straight Line
Healing is more of a spiral than a straight line. It means that there will be weeks where you’ll see huge improvements and others where you feel stuck. It’s completely normal. Those offer opportunities for you to learn deeper and integrate healing in your life. Just trust the process and be patient with yourself.
2. Your Therapist Thinks About You Between Sessions (In a Good Way)
Therapists are humans too, so they genuinely care about you. It’s common for them to reflect on their sessions and think about your progress. Like you, they even have their “aha” moments about your work together during their week. It’s not being obsessive, but rather, a sign of their dedication and human connection that makes them good at their job.
1. Therapists Are Highly Trained and Continuously Supervised
Before they became licensed therapists, they underwent extensive education plus thousands of hours of supervised clinical experience. They even passed a rigorous licensing exam. But of course, their education doesn’t stop there. They engage in even more education and consultation in their careers to give their patients the best possible care.