Maria da Silva, PhD, MEd, LPC

Although some people come to therapy with some "light" need for support, most people have considerable internal and often external challenges. It is important to have reasonable expectations about what therapy can offer you in order to promote better outcomes. Medication is often recommended by psychiatrists to help individuals suffering from certain disorders, or minimize the severity of the symptoms, or provide temporary relief. In any case, your participation is providing the psychiatrist the information about the symptoms and discuss potential psychotropic options. In contrast, psychotherapy, comparatively, requires a higher degree of your involvement. You are actually not a "patient" (a person receiving treatment), but a person partnering with a professional as you actively work on your view of yourself, the world, your future, etc., as well revaluate and redirect your behaviors to promote increased functionality. This process requires a certain degree of commitment and time, as you develop the skills to become the promoter of your own mental health. It is true that, for many people, the ability to express oneself in a safe and supporting environment, will encourage a significant positive change in their overall wellbeing. However, in my experience, expressing alone is not sufficient in many cases. Thus, it is important when coming to therapy, that you be aware that you will need to engage in the work that goes beyond expressing. Therefore, psychoeducation, is most likely to be included in your treatment. You learn about psychological skills and how to apply them to your situation. These skills are beneficial for the duration of your life, for as long as you need them. In summary, in psychotherapy, you are the promoter of your mental health and, therefore, you are active. Your willingness to engage in it must be present in order for you to benefit from counseling. This process might sound intimidating, but a good professional will "meet where you are" and assist you, one step at a time, towards a healthier version of you.

Seeking counseling does not mean you are weak or unable to handle life's challenges. You?ve already been navigating difficult situations your whole life. Counseling simply offers support in a way that helps you go further. We all have parts of ourselves that operate outside of our awareness?patterns, beliefs, or emotional reactions that can quietly hold us back from feeling relief or experiencing deeper contentment. Therapy provides a safe space to uncover those hidden areas and gently reshape the ways you respond to life. It also helps you address patterns you are aware of, but may feel unsure how to change. With professional guidance, you can learn to use your internal strengths more creatively and intentionally, leading to greater connection, confidence, and joy in your everyday life.