What is Therapy, Really?

The past few months have brought a lot of inquiries from individuals looking for help for someone close to them. These moments of looking for help in the realm of ‘mental health’ can be stressful and confusing. What does help look like? Where do I turn? When it comes to acute stress reactions, overwhelming emotions and challenging behaviour it can be all-consuming and again confusing. Perhaps this can help.

The notion of therapy may be a bit misunderstood.Many often think it is a last-ditch effort for those who are ’broken’. That is not the case, so let’s away with that idea once and for all (I am watching Downton Abbey and the language seems to be wearing off). Therapy is for everyone at all times in our lives.We humans need to be seen, heard and understood.Sometimes that doesn’t occur within our current circles of friends, family members or coworkers.Trained professionals know how important being present is and how not to judge and assume, they create psychological safety.Now who doesn’t want that?Another key component of therapy is exploring the skills and knowledge to help with understanding ourselves and each other better.I often chuckle that before studying psychology I knew more about how my computer worked than how I did. Changing that is important. Therapy can help learn more about you just for you.

I applaud the creators of Pixar and Disney movies like “inside Out” and “Encanto”, normalizing feelings, trauma, reconciliation and safe conversations. Watching these can, in effect, be that learning and exploring for better coping mechanisms. Plus there are musical numbers and great graphics.

Lastly, I know what you may be thinking…how do I pay for this therapy stuff and still where do I go? It is a bit annoying if not cruel that the health care system I find myself in (Ontario, Canada) states that physical health care is free and psychological is something we pay for. Until that changes, here are some free resources and next steps.

Ask Google for these resources.

For youth (or even the young at heart) – Kids Help Phone talk txt 24/7 just to chat and get an opportunity to be heard.

211.ca is a directory service for all social services 24/7 – they can help you figure out the right next step.

1-833-456-4566 – Nationwide crisis line – call that number and you will get someone who cares, now.

Wellness Together Canada – connect with someone immediately or set a time to connect.

I am glad you were here.

Xo

Sherry