Isn’t individual therapy just talking about it? How could that help me?

Individual Therapy 

Isn’t therapy just talking about it? How could that help me?

I’ve actually heard this statement and I even understand it. Therapy absolutely is a great place to come to talk through things. When you share your story in a safe space with no judgements and caring ears you can begin to process distressing events or stressful situations. I would never want to discount that side of therapy, but there is so much more that your therapist can do for you. Your healing can and should go further than simply talking to your therapist. When you end therapy, you should be equipped with new tools, skills, and ways of thinking. Therapy can do so much more for you such as improving relationships, help you discover new mind and body techniques, and even rewire your brain’s negative thought patterns!

A lot of people go to therapy because of relationship turmoil. Sometimes it is a personal relationship like a spouse or family member, other times it may be a coworker or boss causing more stress than you care for. Your therapist is able to learn a lot about your communication skills as you discuss your relationships. They will use this information to provide you with new ways to communicate your needs so that others will understand. Working towards better communication involves confidence building, identifying your needs, speaking clearly and concisely, providing and receiving feedback, and learning to have respectful conflict management. Our therapists are skilled at educating clients on all of these, and more.

Another part of individual therapy is reconnecting your body and mind. When trauma and stress happens there can become a divide between the two. Your mind may create unhealthy patterns of dealing with life that you may not even be aware of. Too often clients come in who are living in a state of fight or flight, and there are simple ways to ease out of that and into the opposite state which is “rest and digest.” Our therapists know the tricks and tips to get you out of that fight flight and freeze head space such as different breathing techniques. Controlled breathing actually sends calming signals directly to your brain to let your nervous system know, “hey, I am safe. I am not in danger.” They can also work on connecting your mind to your body through intentional slow movement or with grounding techniques. Both help slow your mind and breath, helping clients feel more connected to the present moment. This can help hugely with people who deal with dissociation.

There once was a misconception that our brains stop developing at a certain age. Fortunately, THAT’S NOT TRUE! Our brains have neuroplasticity, which is how our therapists can help you create new healthy habits. This is done with intention, consistency, meditation and breathwork, and learning how to reduce stress. Just like how trauma can change the way you perceive the world, healing can do the exact same thing, and our therapists can help. Neuroplasticity allows us to rewire our brains meaning there really is hope beyond trauma. \

Individual counseling offers so much more than simply a listening ear. Our therapists are actively paying attention so that they provide you with the best support that will be most beneficial to you. Therapy is not a one size fits all situation and it is important that your therapist gives you the tools to continue healing outside of their office. The goal is for you to live your life authentically with the ability to handle the trials and tribulations life will throw at you.

If your life feels unnecessarily stressful, please know that you are not alone, nor do you need to handle it alone. Our therapists will take the time to provide you with the tools, skills, and resources you need to feel capable of dealing with everyday stresses and traumas that you may experience in life. Scheduling is easy and we have therapists with availability to take on new clients. Simply call or text (616) 284-1329 or email echivis@mariposacounselingllc.com

Help is just a phone call away.

-Emily Chivis

 Office Manager