What is therapy?
So… the Oxford dictionary states that Therapy is “The treatment of mental or psychological disorders by psychological means” which, to me sounds a little bit weird and not very clear.
If you asked me ‘what does therapy mean?’ This is what I would say:
Therapy is time spent with a trained therapist, either individually on in a group. The trained therapist will support and guide the ‘client’ to work through the issues that have brought them to want therapy. These issues may include; developing better communication, developing confidence, relationships, low mood, depression, anxiety. Basically an ‘issue’ may be anything that gets in the way of your everyday life, you leading the life you want to live.
What’s different to this and just talking to a friend?
A therapist has had specific training to be able to support their clients, this means that they can listen to your ‘issues’ objectively (from an outsiders point of view without being clouded by their own feelings about the situation) and without judgement. A therapist can also help you to move forward by thinking about the ‘issues’ you have and find ways to deal with them. You can look at the obstacles in your life and find a way to move past them.
A therapist offers a space that is safe and confidential. This means that whatever you say in the session is kept in the session.
What types of therapy are there?
There are lots of different types of therapy. Here are some examples
Counselling
CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy)
Psychotherapy
Play therapy
Art Therapy
Dramatherapy*
Music Therapy*
Dance Movement Therapy*
*These all come under the umbrella of Creative arts Therapies
Therapies; Your guide!