Great question! You do not need to have a “mental illness” to reap the benefits of therapy. Most people, at some point in their life, would benefit greatly from talking with a therapist. Some questions you might consider:
If you said “yes” to any of these questions, therapy may be helpful in getting answers that will help you live your best life. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma around mental illness and many people who need help are too ashamed to reach out. Luckily, therapy is confidential and doesn’t need to last for years although it can if that’s what is needed. Even if you can normally handle your problems, therapy can assist by giving you extra tools and give you a better understanding of yourself.
I usually meet with clients once per week for 50 minute sessions. There is not a predetermined amount of sessions. The length of therapy is determined for each individual and can be subject to change during the course of treatment. This can be re-evaluated at any time. Some clients benefit significantly from only 3-4 sessions if they are only working on a specific issue while others prefer to make therapy a priority for a few months and up to one year.
The law protects the patient and therapist relationship. Information cannot be disclosed without written permission.
Exceptions include:
Therapy is a relationship with a person who either has a Masters or Doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology or Social Work. Therapists are licensed within a specific state and are mandated to have a minimum education, supervision, training, and continuing education. It is within a therapist’s scope of practice to diagnose mental illnesses and bill with insurance.
A coach often completes specialized training and certification, but there is no requirement. Coaching tends to focus on the present and future rather than the past. A coach helps people identify their goals and confront any obstacles they are facing. Most of the time, coaches work with people who are basically healthy and functioning but not reaching their full potential. A therapist will inquire further into a client’s history to address previous trauma and the root cause of problematic behavior.
Therapists and coaches can both help individuals or couples make changes in their lives. Therapists and coaches both guide and support, and look to improve the life of the individual they are working with. If you have a specific mental illness it may be better to seek professional help from a licensed therapist.