Why Therapy Takes Time
A human is a complex being with emotions, memories, and beliefs that shape their reality under the significance of therapy. One develops distressing mental conditions when faced with difficult life experiences that challenge their worldview. Over time, maladaptive patterns are learned that lead to an unhealthy physical and mental state. In the absence of a parent(s), or the presence of a critical environment, a child may show symptoms of unfit mental health through unwanted behaviours. They may experience intense anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, and other unpleasant emotions that may be hard to cope with.
When dealing with a client, as a therapist, I have to be empathetic and step into their shoes. In therapy, the upbringing of the client plays a crucial role in understanding the root cause of the problem. I explore childhood patterns and significant relationships to gain deeper insight into the situation. Through this, I formulate a treatment plan, customized according to the unique needs of each client. Based on their capacity and responsiveness, I try various techniques for inculcating healthy coping strategies.
Even a common cold takes a few doses of medication to fully recover. The nature of trauma is such that it is re-experienced through triggering events unless addressed, which means that there is no quick fix when it comes to healing. It is not a linear journey, but a spiral where you may come back to the same point over and over again, yet expanding. It takes time for new neural pathways to be formed in the brain. Psychiatric medication, too requires 3-6 months for noticeable changes. They reduce the response to stress and don’t “stop” the feelings, unlike popular notions.
Sometimes we are quick to understand someone, sometimes it takes time. If we’re fast, there’s a high chance we’re seeing only what we want to see, through a biased lens. A good therapist does not allow their own worldview to prevent them from looking at the client objectively. A good therapist keeps their own beliefs and opinions at bay to help the client make changes that suit them. This is why therapists are different from friends, and therapy takes time.
Unlearning old habits and learning new regulating skills is a lifelong journey. In therapy, the goal remains to make the client independent and set off on this journey on their own. A Therapist peels off many layers of the psyche, to help bring more awareness into your life and gain self-mastery. If you’re planning to seek Therapy or see if Therapy is for you, be patient. Changes don’t happen overnight, and one needs to trust their therapist. Find a Professional you’re comfortable with, and begin the process of exploring a whole new world.
