So, You’re Thinking About Starting Therapy… Frequently Asked Questions (and answers!) about Psychotherapy by Alyssa Melvin, MA, LPC
Q: Where did therapy originate?
The concept of therapy has been in existence since ancient Greek times. The term “therapeia” (θεραπεία) was used in relation to the holistic treatment of a person’s mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. Philosophers explored the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, and incorporated various methods of self-care, including music, massaging of the body, and deep discussions as part of the treatment protocol.
Modern therapy, or psychotherapy, was developed in the late 1800s. This is where the contemporary form of “talk therapy” originated. Sigmund Frued, Carl Rogers, and Albert Ellis are prominent names associated with the practice.
Q: What is the best approach or style of therapy?
There are numerous methods of therapy (some speculate over 300!), though the “best” approach will depend on the therapist and the preferences of the client. Each therapist may utilize a different strategy or “style” in their therapy approach, often times even combining many different methods.
Some of the more commonly implemented therapeutic methods include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), where the focus is first on changing maladaptive behaviors in order to then change negative thoughts
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), where the focus is on emotional regulation and improving interpersonal effectiveness
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which promotes acceptance of difficult emotions and experiences, or “suffering,” and helps clients pursue meaningful goals
Psychodynamic Therapy, which explores early childhood patterns and unconscious experiences
Person-Centered Therapy, which encourages the client to explore their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences in order to reach self-acceptance
Q: What should I expect in the first session?
Typically the first therapy session will include a review of the items detailed in the Welcome Packet provided by the therapist prior to the session. This includes information on confidentiality, consent for treatment, and general demographic information for the client to fill out beforehand. The therapist will also introduce his or herself and answer any questions the client may have prior to starting.
I usually let my clients know that a first session can sometimes be overwhelming, as the therapist will likely be asking a lot of questions in order to complete an intake. This will typically follow a biopsychosocial method of questioning to ensure that the therapist has a detailed understanding of the client’s biological, psychological, and social histories. If a client is coming for a more specific reason (i.e. eating disorder) the therapist will also explore the thoughts/feelings/behaviors associated with this particular concern in the first session as well.
Q: How long does therapy usually take to “work”?
This can be a tough question to answer, as a timeline for treatment varies from person to person. As frustrating as this answer may sound: it depends.
Most people will typically feel relief within a few sessions, see measurable change in 2-3 months, and make deeper, lasting change over 6+ months.
Often clients will enter the therapy space wanting to resolve one specific challenge in their life, thinking it will be short-term, and end up continuing therapy even after the challenge’s resolution. It is not atypical for a client to work with a therapist for several years, even if their introductory issue has subsided.
Q: How often will I need to go?
Weekly sessions are typically recommended at first, though this can vary depending on a client’s needs and goals. With time and progress, sessions titrate down, reducing to biweekly, and sometimes, monthly. During especially difficult or stressful times, a therapist may recommend increasing sessions back up, depending on the client’s ability to manage.
Q: Is everything I say confidential?
In short answer: yes. Your therapist has an ethical responsibility to ensure confidentiality in the therapy space. A client has the autonomy to choose to sign a release of information (ROI) for specific individuals should they so choose (i.e. a partner, medical provider, registered dietitian), with the ability to rescind the release of information at any point.
The only time in which a therapist will breach a client’s confidentiality and override a non-existing ROI is if the client is experiencing active thoughts to hurt his or herself and/or others.
Q: What if I don’t feel a connection with my therapist?
One of the most powerful things about therapy is the client’s right to choose. Just like we won’t be drawn to every person we meet in the “real world,” we may not feel a connection with a therapy provider - and that’s okay! Transference is a common occurrence in therapy. A therapist should never feel offended if a client chooses to seek services with a different provider, for whatever reason the client may have. A therapist may also provide you with referrals for alternative providers who may be a better fit.
Q: What if I feel like I’m not “sick enough” for therapy?
There is no “check-list” that an individual needs to meet in order to be a candidate for therapy - everyone is entitled to individual, confidential, compassionate care. (A cliché phrase used often amongst therapists is, “Even therapists have therapists.”) A therapist’s job is to meet each and every client where they are at, without bias or judgment.
To learn more or connect with someone from our team please reach out to Lotus Therapy Group at 708-552-7330 or email us at lotustherapygroup@gmail.com.
