In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month I wanted to take a moment to share when it is okay to see a Therapist. One of the biggest myths about therapy is: "Something must be wrong with you if you see a Therapist." This is so far from the truth. There are so many reasons why therapy may be beneficial for you.
Transitions
Therapy is a great tool for navigating transitions. Some examples of transitions include:
Going to college
Graduating college into adulthood
Being single to dating
Dating to marriage
Marriage to divorce
Becoming a parent
Becoming an empty nester
Or any other transitional period
Working with a therapist can help you navigate all transitional periods in your life.
2. To learn coping strategies
Therapy is a great way to learn how to manage stress, and symptoms of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment, or ADHD.
Having a self-care routine can make a world of difference in your ability to manage daily stressors.
Self-Care Categories to consider in creating a self-care routine include:
Emotional
Physical
Intellectual
Spiritual
Practical
Professional
Environmental
The Self-Care Blueprint ebook is designed to help you create the perfect self-care routine that works for your lifestyle.
Download a copy here: The Self-Care Blueprint
3. The have an unbiased space to just be yourself
As a therapist it is my goal to create an environment where clients can show up to be themselves. In today's world, how often are you able to feel comfortable showing up as your full AUTHENTIC self? Therapy should be a safe space for you to do just that. Whatever you might be feeling. Whatever language you want to use. I'm here to hold space for you. You cursing today? We are cursing today!
4. To create boundaries and enhance your interpersonal skills
In therapy we are creating boundaries to protect your peace, and help you feel comfortable in sharing your truths in an assertive, but respectful way. Some of the things focused on in therapy when it comes to how we interact with others include:
Establishing and maintaining boundaries
Passive-aggressive behaviors
Assertive communication
Conflict resolution skills
Affirming your voice
Knowing the value of your perspective
Knowing when to speak and when it's okay not to speak
People pleasing
5. To process a traumatic event
There are various types of trauma that happen on a daily basis. In therapy we will work on processing traumatic events and reducing any symptoms that you may be experiencing as a result of the traumatic event. Some examples of traumatic events include:
Natural disasters
Sexual assault
Physical assault
Witnessing a crime
Sudden death of a loved one
Medical issues and hospitalizations
Physical or emotional abuse
Sexual abuse
War
Terroristic Events
I hope this has been beneficial. Please share with someone who has been considering therapy and has some hesitations. Therapy can help you grow in so many areas of life.
There are many directories for finding a therapist that fits your needs. Interview your therapist. Most therapists provide consultations to determine if you both are a good fit for one another. Here are a few directories.
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us
Therapy for Black Girls: https://providers.therapyforblackgirls.com
Google: https://www.google.com
Loveland Foundation: https://thelovelandfoundation.org/loveland-therapy-fund/
Black Female Therapists: https://www.blackfemaletherapists.com
