Our brains are complex machines that we don’t fully comprehend or control. So when something goes wrong in our bodies and our brains, getting it fixed isn’t simple. It’s not like having a broken part in your car. You can’t simply swap parts, reset the system, and go back to normal in a day.
The process is not linear, and while setting goals is important, it’s equally crucial to find balance along the way. Here are three important things I like to share with my clients when they ask about what to expect during their therapy journey.
It’s Not a Straight Line.
Imagine a ball of string. It’s tangled and hard to unravel. There are knots in unexpected places and while you can find sections that are easy to work on, you’ll also find yourself stuck at points. Like that ball of string, your mental health journey may take unexpected turns and twists. Some days you may feel like you’re making great progress, while on others, you might encounter setbacks. And that’s okay. It may sound cliché, but it’s all part of the process. You don’t have to have all the answers, you just need to keep working on it.
Goal Setting is About Balance
Goals are great for helping motivate us and telling us whether we are on the right track. But they can hurt us if we don’t use them properly or understand them. Finding a realistic goal that you can work towards is essential. And celebrating every win, even if it seems small, will keep you pushing forward (even if you experience setbacks). And don’t worry if you don’t know what your goals should be, that’s part of the therapy process that we help you navigate.
We’re Here to Help
If you’ve ever pulled wired earbuds out of your pocket (or purse) and found them tangled and jumbled, you can understand how tempting it is to throw them away and get new ones. It seems easier to give up. It’s always good to have a friend to help you figure out the pattern in the tangle and work on it alongside you. That friend can help you by showing you different ways to look at the mess. Your therapist is the friend who is there for one reason: to help you untangle the mess you find yourself in. Through your counseling sessions, you’ll gain insights into your emotions, develop coping strategies, and learn to navigate the twists and turns of your journey. And move towards a less tangled mental mess.
I won’t lie- it’s not going to be easy. Some days you will find yourself questioning why you even try. But this journey is worth taking. It’s not a straight line, and not every day will be fun. But you can learn how to find joy along the way.
If any of this resonates with you, please come sit by our fireplace and chat. We’re here to help you no matter where you are in your journey.
