As a German psychotherapist working in Singapore, our cultural upbringing may differ and this can impact many, if not all aspects of therapy. However, undergoing therapy will always coincide with the decision to embark on a new path.
The therapy process involves exploring core beliefs, patterns, assumptions, and current coping mechanisms. Patients often seek therapy to alleviate the pain and suffering that may be brought on by their mental health issue(s), past experiences, strong feelings and/or behaviours. Yet, as therapy progresses, choosing a new path and the prospect of change may become very daunting.
Am I worthy of love, if I allow myself to not be perfect?
What is left of me, if I don’t constantly achieve?
Will I crumble, if emotions surface that I have buried for such a long time?
What will happen, if I start to see myself in a different light?
Often, it is at this point, that patients realise something that may seem completely counter-intuitive- their agonizing mental health issue and everything that is attached to it may be the exact thing that provided them with a sense of security and familiarity. Consequently, letting go of this old path may give rise to some feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. On this note, it can be helpful to consider the advantages and disadvantages of the old path and acknowledge what it may have meant to them. This exercise, along with the exploration of their past often helps patients, who may feel ashamed for having developed a mental health issue, to appreciate that, when looking at their lives path so far, their core beliefs, patterns and past coping strategies may have made sense to fulfil a purpose.
The next step is to explore the advantages and disadvantages of the new path – of the unknown – and making the conscious decision to embark on it. Here are five tips to guide you on your therapeutic journey:
- Asking for help is not easy – Acknowledge the courage and strength it takes to seek help
- Choose a therapist that you feel safe and comfortable with
- Be patient and kind to yourself – the therapeutic process is not straightforward, you will pause, divert and stumble, it is all part of your journey
- Writing down important breakthroughs often helps to reinforce them
- Therapy time is your time, so if something doesn’t work for you, let your therapist know, so you can find a solution together!
The therapeutic journey is daunting and unfamiliar, but also strewn with the possibility and hopefulness for new beginnings, of new seeds to be planted, which may blossom and bloom into something strong, healthy and beautiful. So, to everyone out there who is considering a new path – take faith and courage, you are not alone in this! You have your therapist by your side, who will guide you, cheer you on and pick you up when you stumble.
Head to our FAQ page for more information on the therapeutic process or watch our videos and hear from our expert team of therapists directly.
