What to Expect When Seeking Professional Therapy or Counseling Services
Embarking on the journey to seek therapy or counseling is a significant and positive step toward better mental health and overall well-being. We know there can also be a lot of fear and uncertainty about what therapy is like. Understanding what to expect can ease any anxieties and help you feel more prepared as you begin this process. Below is an overview of the key elements you’ll encounter when seeking professional therapy or counseling services.
1. Screening and Paperwork
The first step in the therapy process often involves a screening and initial paperwork. This stage typically occurs during your initial contact with the therapy practice or counselor. Screening helps the therapist understand your needs and determine if their services are a good fit for you. You might be asked basic questions about your mental health history, current concerns, and what you hope to achieve through therapy.
You'll also complete intake paperwork, which usually includes forms related to your personal and medical history, consent forms, and information about confidentiality and privacy practices. This documentation is crucial as it provides your therapist with important background information and ensures that you understand the terms of the therapeutic relationship.
2. Assessment and Treatment Planning
After the initial screening, the first few sessions will focus on assessment and treatment planning. During these sessions, your therapist will gather more detailed information about your mental health, lifestyle, and specific challenges. This might involve discussing your symptoms, past experiences, relationships, and any previous treatment you've received.
The assessment phase is collaborative, allowing both you and your therapist to gain a clear understanding of your needs. Based on this information, your therapist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan outlines the goals you want to achieve in therapy and the strategies that will be used to help you reach them. It’s an evolving document that can be adjusted as you progress in therapy.
3. Sessions
Regular therapy sessions are the core of the therapeutic process. These sessions typically last between 30 to 60 minutes and occur weekly or bi-weekly, depending on your needs and the therapist's availability. During these sessions, you’ll explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe, supportive environment.
Your therapist will use various techniques and approaches tailored to your specific issues, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or mindfulness practices. Sessions are designed to help you gain insights, develop coping strategies, and work through any challenges you face. Therapy is a gradual process, and progress may vary, but consistency and open communication with your therapist are key to achieving your goals.
4. Conclusion of Therapy
The conclusion of therapy is a planned and important phase of the therapeutic process. When you and your therapist determine that you have met your treatment goals or feel ready to handle challenges independently, you’ll begin discussing the process of ending therapy. Concluding therapy is not an abrupt ending but a gradual transition. Your therapist will review the progress you’ve made, reinforce the skills and strategies you've learned, and ensure that you feel confident in applying them outside of therapy. You may also discuss any potential future challenges and how to manage them effectively. The goal of therapy is to empower you to continue your journey of personal growth and mental wellness independently.
5. Other things to consider
Are me and my therapist a good fit?
Some individuals and therapists may not be a good fit, and that’s okay. If you feel this is the case, talk about it with your therapist. They understand and can even help link you to another therapist or service that might be a better fit. We just want you to feel comfortable and get the care you deserve!
How long after starting therapy will I see results?
This varies with each individual and their unique needs. It is important that you feel therapy is beneficial. It is helpful to keep in mind that therapy sometimes involves dealing with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, but you should always be progressing toward your goals.
There are therapists and psychologists and psychiatrists…who do I see?
As mental health therapists/counselors, the scope of treatment is talk therapy. Typically therapists have their master’s degree, are licensed by the state in which they practice, and obtain annual continuing education. There are different types of Licensed Therapists including Clinical Social Workers, Counselors, and Marriage & Family Therapists.
While psychologists also provide counseling services they also provide psychological testing for schools, courts, and other entities. Psychiatrists tend to limit their talk therapy/counseling services and are typically available for medication management. If your therapist feels that you may need medication, they will provide you with a referral to a doctor. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in behavior. If medication is necessary, typically in these cases, medication and talk therapy are used together. Medication therapy is not a replacement for talk therapy.
Seeking therapy or counseling is a courageous step toward self-improvement. Understanding the different stages of the process—from initial screening and assessment to regular sessions and eventual termination—can help you feel more informed and comfortable as you embark on this journey. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your active participation is essential to achieving the best possible outcomes.
Did we miss anything? Are there things you wish you’d known before starting therapy? Let us know in the comments.
