Therapy was once considered a very rigid process. A professional in a suit would sit on a chair while the client laid across a chaise discussing his or her problems. The therapist took notes and rarely said a word.
That’s not how therapy works in the modern world. Counseling and recovery programs are much more interactive now. Therapists have transitioned from stark listeners to engaged supporters, and clients are benefiting from the experience. Let’s take a closer look at how therapy actually works in today’s society.
Get Matched with the Best Therapist for Your Needs
Here at Heron Ridge Associates, we start all of our therapy relationships by matching the client to the right therapist for his or her needs. The counselors can address a wide range of concerns, but they also offer specialized therapy for specific situations. For instance, a couple on the verge of divorce would get matched with a marriage counselor focused on divorce prevention. A teenager struggling with low self-esteem would be paired with a teen counselor. This gives each client the best chance at success right from the start.
Pinpoint the Root Cause of Your Mental Health Issues
Once you have been matched with a therapist, you can begin discussing your life as a whole. Talk about your concerns, your fears, your past, your goals – anything you like. The therapist will ask questions to learn more about you, with the goal of finding the root cause of your issues. What’s making you depressed now, and what sparked it to begin with? What changed in your marriage to make you feel distant from your spouse? When did you notice your anger getting out of control? Getting to the root of the problem will provide a clear path for a solution.
Find Solutions That Work for Your Lifestyle
Long ago, therapy was a somewhat linear process. Therapists followed a certain set of steps they believed would get the best results. In the modern world, the process is more fluid, less linear. Therapists adapt their treatments to suit the needs of their clients. For instance, some clients benefit from journaling their thoughts and feelings. Some people simply do not have the time to do that. Your therapist will consider all aspects of your life to provide suggestions for recovery. You remain in control at all times, and you are ultimately the one who decides to make a change for the better.
Continue Working through Your Issues Week by Week
Recovery doesn’t happen overnight. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, stress, anger, relationship struggles, or anything else, it will take time to see results. With that in mind, you will notice progress every time you speak to your therapist. As long as you follow the treatment plan and keep a positive outlook, you will make long-term improvements in your life.
Contact Heron Ridge Associates to schedule an appointment at one of our Michigan therapist offices.
