Many people consider therapy in silence. They feel something is not right, but the thought “do I really need a therapist?” comes with doubt and the belief that maybe it is an overreaction.
If you are asking yourself this question too – you are in the right place.
In this article I will tell you:
- when it is worth considering psychological therapy,
- what the first visit to a therapist looks like,
- what types of therapy there are and what you can gain from them,
- and most importantly: whether therapy is for you.
What is therapy and how can it help?
Therapy is a professional form of psychological help whose aim is to improve your quality of life, to understand yourself, and to cope skilfully with emotional and relationship difficulties.
It is not a chat with a “wise adviser” or a “motivational pep talk”. A therapist is a specialist with the right training and experience who offers a safe, confidential space where you can look at your emotions, thoughts and relationships – at your own pace, without judgement.
Therapy can help you:
- understand yourself and your emotions better,
- change unhelpful patterns of thinking or acting,
- cope with anxiety, depression, stress and burnout,
- improve your relationships with others,
- get through difficult moments in life (divorce, loss, a life change),
- learn to set boundaries and take care of yourself.
When is it worth deciding on therapy? Signs that may show you need help
You do not need to have a “diagnosed disorder” to benefit from psychotherapy.
Here are the most common situations that lead people to seek a therapist’s help:
Emotional overload
We are talking here about constant tiredness, tension, irritability and lack of energy. This may mean that your emotional resources are running out.
Relationship difficulties
Problems in your relationship, family conflicts, feeling lonely even when you are surrounded by loved ones – these often point to deeper causes that are worth looking at.
Anxiety and depression
Recurring low moods, thoughts of giving up, panic attacks, sleep problems and rumination are a sign that it is worth seeking support.
Life crises
Life brings situations that often throw us off balance and call for help. A big and sudden change, a break-up, a loss, a move, a new job, an illness – these are just examples of crisis situations.
A sense of emptiness or meaninglessness
Even when everything is fine, you are left with the feeling that something is missing. You may feel a lack of inner peace, satisfaction or direction. That something which would fill you up and put wind in your sails, carrying you towards fulfilment and satisfaction.
Psychological therapy – is it for me?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions. The answer is: if you are wondering whether therapy is for you – it is very likely that you are already ready to take the first step.
You do not need to wait for a crisis to benefit from psychotherapy. You may simply want to live more calmly, more consciously, more fully.
Therapy is not a last resort. It is an investment in yourself, and such investments are the best, because they always pay off. It translates into better relationships, mental health and emotional balance.
How to choose the right therapy for you?
Therapy is a path towards a particular goal, and each of us wants to find that specific ‘something’ on this journey. There are many paths to choose from, and if one of them does not suit your preferences, you always have a choice and can make a change. The question remains: which path do you want to follow to reach this goal?
In Poland the most common approaches to psychotherapy are:
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
It focuses on the links between thoughts, emotions and behaviour. It helps you change unhelpful thinking patterns and act in new ways. It is often chosen for depression, anxiety, eating disorders and addictions.
Psychodynamic therapy
It helps you reach the unconscious mechanisms and inner conflicts that influence our behaviour. It deals with the past and with relationships.
Humanistic therapy (e.g. Gestalt, Rogerian, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy – SFBT)
It puts the emphasis on contact with the present, authenticity, acceptance and personal growth. It is especially helpful for people looking for meaning and a deeper connection with themselves.
Systemic therapy
It focuses on the person by looking at the relationships in their closest circle, for example in the family or the couple. It is often used in family and couples therapy.
What does the first visit to a therapist’s practice look like?
It is the first session that often feels like the hardest step. You have to walk into the room, where uncertainty, shame and fear of being judged may appear… This is understandable and natural, especially when we are doing something for the first time and do not know what to expect.
- Welcome and introduction – going over the practical arrangements for the sessions. The therapist will tell you what the rules are (e.g. confidentiality, regular sessions) and answer any questions on your mind.
- Getting to know your story and needs – you do not need to tell everything at once. This session is based on a calm conversation in which you decide how much you want to say for now.
- Setting the goal of therapy – together you agree on what you will be working on and what the further process might look like.
- Safety and trust – the therapist’s role is not to judge. A psychologist does not interrupt or hand out “good advice”. Their aim is to create a space where you can be yourself.
Worries about therapy – and what is worth knowing about them
“I don’t know where to start” – that is completely understandable. The therapist will help you sort through your thoughts and emotions. You do not need to prepare for this session in any special way.
“I’m afraid I’ll cry” – that is a very good sign. Tears are not a sign of weakness, but a signal that “something” important is asking for attention.
“What if the therapist doesn’t understand me?” – You have every right to look for a person you feel comfortable with. Sometimes one conversation is enough to feel that click 🙂
“I don’t want to become dependent on therapy” – Therapy has its goal and its end. It is a process meant to strengthen you and show you a wider perspective – not to make you dependent.
The most common myths about psychotherapy
Myth: Therapy is only for the “mentally ill”
Fact: Therapy is for anyone who wants to improve their quality of life – whether they have a diagnosis or not.
Myth: The therapist tells me what to do
Fact: The therapist helps you discover your own answers and encourages you to try new methods you have worked out together. They do not judge or impose ready-made solutions. The choice is always yours.
Myth: Therapy takes years
Fact: It is an individual process. Depending on the approach and the complexity of the issues, some therapies last several months, others are shorter (e.g. crisis interventions or brief therapy – SFBT).
Myth: Talking to a friend is enough
Fact: A friend can listen to you and support you – a therapist has the tools to help you make real change in your life.
Take that first step – I am here to help you
If this text has stirred something important in you – do not ignore it. This may be the moment to take care of yourself in a new way.
Therapy is not a sign of weakness. It is a conscious choice not to carry everything alone.
In my practice I offer you full understanding, discretion and a kind presence. No pressure, no judgement. Simply – one human being for another.
Call or write. Book a consultation.
This could be the beginning of an important change in your life.
Pracownia Terapii i Rozwoju HEFIO Paulina Gorazdowska
phone: 690-199-218
E-mail: kontakt@hefio.pl
Website: www.hefio.pl
In-person practice: 80-389 Gdańsk, ul. Śląska 66b (CULTURAL CENTRE)
Online sessions – available from anywhere via WhatsApp
You do not have to be prepared for everything. It is enough that you are ready to take the first step.
We will take care of the rest together.