I’m a huge fan of the show Ted Lasso and in this latest season Ted recognizes that he needs the support and guidance of the psychologist Dr. Sharon Fieldstone. In this short clip, he shows the vulnerability of feeling the need for help and the fear of “going there” at the same time and within minutes, leaves the room.
As therapists, we recognize the desire to create change in our lives and the fear to walk into those dark places and how both can be true at the same time. I want to share some aspects of therapy that might help you feel more comfortable and “ready” to walk into a therapy room and start creating the change you truly want and deserve. It is a big step to recognize you are ready for support. It can be overwhelming to reach out to schedule an appointment. There are many approaches and treatment modalities that Therapy With Heart offers including EMDR Therapy, Couples Therapy, Grief and Loss Therapy, Family Therapy and many others so we are happy to talk through what might work best for you. From your first touch point, we can help you navigate this process and want you to know you are not alone.
*We recognize that we are a stranger to you initially and we are not going to ‘push’ you into talking about things that you may never have said out loud to another person until you are ready and feel safe enough to do so. This might take some time initially to build the therapeutic relationship and establish that connection with the therapist. This is all part of therapy and creates the resource and ability for you to open up more and more.
*Change is not a linear process. It does not occur in an A to B or step 1, 2, 3 format. Trust the process and know that your therapist has a map, a plan, and expertise to help you reach your therapy goals. Although each session might not result in “light bulb or a-ha” moments, progress is happening and if you ever have doubts or want to talk about the process and progress ask your therapist. Therapy is a relationship dynamic and is always changing. We are not mind readers so feel free to ask questions about your therapy process.
*As Ted Lasso is struggling with opening up to the therapist, he questions her about whether she really cares or if she just gets paid to care. Therapy With Heart cares, we truly care. Yes, we chose a profession that allows us to get paid to care but we really are invested in your life, feel what you share with us is privileged and sacred, and our hearts have compassion and empathy for your struggles. AND, we can maintain professional boundaries. We got you.
I’m going to share something with you. I have many friends, family, and clients that love going to see their therapists. I’m a huge believer in therapy and have gone off and on throughout my life time for various reasons and seasons. My therapist knows this but I’m going to share it with you. I do NOT look forward to our sessions, in fact, I often spend some time before a session resisting even going! And then I go and I always (yes I will use an absolute word here, always) am glad I went. I know it’s hard to believe that I resist going but I’m like Ted Lasso in that I like to push through, put a smile on my face, and I have many healthy resources to cope with stress in my life. That being said, when I’m in that session with my therapist, and she asks me to slow down, to feel the feels, and walks through some deep things in my life, it’s such a gift, such a release, such a relief…and each time a bit more healing is happening.
I’m happy to answer any questions you have about therapy and to be a resource for you in finding the right therapist to work with you at Therapy With Heart. We have an exceptional team of therapists with a wide range of specialties. It’s great to ask questions so don’t hesitate to reach out: Rachel@therapywithheart
