Fullerton Observer Column by Michelle Gottlieb, Psy.D., MFT

How do I know if I need to go to therapy? A common question, often answered with “I must be crazy if I have to go to therapy!” So, the first thing I want to say in response is that you do not need to be crazy to be in therapy. In fact, I do not see crazy people in my practice. Crazy people see things that aren’t there and hear people who aren’t there. There is usually a chemical imbalance that needs to be corrected with medication. So, if you are not seeing some large elephant in your living room, but you are not happy, you may be a candidate for therapy.

That is the main criteria: are you not happy? Have you tried doing different things but your life is still not what you want? Your relationship is still not good? You are still not enjoying your life? It may be time to find a therapist. But before you see a therapist, you might want to consider reaching out to trusted friends, get support for what is going on, see if they have any ideas that you could try out. Talk to family members. If you have reached out, and you are still not on the right track, it might be time to make that phone call.

But how do you know what therapist to call? You can get referrals from your friends and family, your clergy, your doctor. Do not worry about their being shocked that you are considering therapy. Odds are that they have already been in therapy. Yes, even your clergy and your doctor. Once you get some phone numbers, call some different therapists and see what you think of them. Do you seem to click? Just because your best friend loved her therapist does not mean that the therapist will be a good fit for you.

Then start going to therapy. You will probably not feel better after one or two sessions. In fact, it may take a few months especially if your issues are long-standing. Do not give up on yourself. You will be able to make the changes that you need in order to enjoy your life.

Life is a journey and you can enjoy it. Good luck!

Therapy?
Michelle's Column in the Fullerton Observer

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Therapy? Michelle's Column in the Fullerton Observer