I have posed this question because I feel it shows society's attitude to therapy - that one has to need therapy to have it. For some the answer is a definite yes* and this particularly true if you are finding life impossible to manage. However, my philosophy is that therapy can be beneficial to all of us at any time. So perhaps the real question is; Why do we feel we must need therapy, in order to have it? We buy a new pair of shoes without needing them. However, spending money on psychological well-being is still difficult to do. The following questions, and my responses to them, may help you to decide whether to have therapy, and if I am the right therapist for you. And if I am, do get in touch.
Are you unhappy?
Does unhappiness sit on your shoulders like a dull black cloud? Unhappiness is natural at times, but when it is persistent or makes it difficult for you to function, therapy can help.
Are you anxious?
Anxiety and stress can motivate us, but too much can be very uncomfortable and debilitating. Perhaps you have had a crisis - a relationship breakup, a bereavement, redundancy, or perhaps anxiety has become so much part of your life, that it is difficult to know the cause. Therapy provides the space to process events, to look into ourselves and to discover our own in-built ability to make life manageable again.
Do your responsibilities feel too much?
Are your daily responsibilities feeling too heavy? Perhaps you have a stressful job, or find parenting difficult, or are having to cope with caring for a loved one. And perhaps your self esteem is taking a battering. Friends are well-meaning but they cannot help but see things from their perspective. Therapy offers you the neutral space to allow you to discover your real feelings about your life, to consider how you can make changes, so that you find the path right for you and to find your inner qualities.
Are you struggling with perfectionism?
Perfectionism is woven into the fabric of our society, but why? What does being perfect mean, and who is meant to achieve it? And perhaps most importantly, can we manage with not being perfect? Therapy can challenge society's expectations and our responses to them, so that you can work out what is best for you.
* Please note that therapy should not replace medication, unless on the advice of a GP. If in extreme distress, it would be wise to take more immediate action by calling the emergency services and seeing a medical professional.