Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is a safe and confidential space to work one-on-one with a licensed therapist. These private counseling sessions provide you with the support you need to address whatever challenges you’re facing in your life. Mental health issues are actually far more common than most of us realize, and there are many different reasons that people seek relief through psychotherapy.
At your first session, you will have a chance to ask questions to determine if a therapist is a right fit for your needs. During this initial intake, you can ask about things like their therapeutic approach, and also discuss what you hope to get out of your individual therapy sessions together. You may also wish to set some goals at this time so that your new therapist has a clear understanding of your priorities. But if you aren’t yet sure, that’s okay, too. You will also review other important things like scheduling and fees.
Individual Therapy Benefits
There are many benefits to individual therapy. Regardless of your reasons for choosing to see a therapist at this time, you can expect to learn more about yourself during sessions. This is because a skilled therapist can guide you to make connections that you weren’t aware of before. These unique insights will have a powerful effect on your life, as well as your relationships.
Similarly, when we become more conscious of what’s driving our own behaviors, we can make different choices. This understanding also leads to a greater sense of empathy for both ourselves and others.
Whether or not you’re currently partnered, individual therapy can improve the quality of your relationships, making them more deeply fulfilling. In part, this is because one of the top benefits of counseling is that it will teach you new ways of communicating your needs. After all, even healthy relationships are full of ups and downs. There’s also a cyclical nature of coming together or taking space that some people struggle with, but this is normal, too. There are simply times when we’re more connected than others. A good therapist can illuminate your relationship dynamics, so you have a clearer picture.
Individual therapy sessions can also help you establish appropriate boundaries with friends, loved ones, and co-workers. Boundaries are important because they set a standard for how we expect to be treated. They create a framework for our sense of safety, which is why they’re so necessary for our mental and emotional well-being. But many of us weren’t modeled healthy boundaries as children. This is all the more reason to examine our boundaries.
There are many other advantages to seeing a therapist, but these are some key points that can have a wide-ranging impact on your life.
Best Time to Seek Therapy
The best time to seek therapy is before you’re ever in a state of crisis. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not necessary to experience a major life trauma in order to choose individual therapy. Sometimes we’re just ready to make a few changes and need someone to talk to. But we have busy lives, and, unfortunately, most people don’t stop to consider their mental health until they reach a breaking point.
Of course, we all experience stress from time to time. It’s often an inseparable part of personal growth, and no one’s life is entire without problems. But if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately, that can be a clear sign that you need some new tools to help you cope with life’s challenges. In particular, if thoughts, feelings, or behaviors have begun to disrupt your daily routine, individual therapy can help you navigate a path forward.
The short answer is that therapy is for everyone; we all need support and understanding. Even if you aren’t entirely sure that counseling is right for you, there’s no harm in scheduling a consultation to learn more. You can schedule an appointment today by filling out the contact us form, or calling the office of Brett Beaver, LMFT at (925) 324-4514.