What Patients Should Know Before Starting Behavioral Therapy
Delving into behavioral therapy can be a transformative journey filled with unique challenges and milestones. This article demystifies the process, offering clear, expert-backed insights into what patients can expect on the path to personal growth. Understanding the nuances of therapy's progression is crucial in setting realistic expectations and fostering a resilient mindset for the long haul.
- Therapy Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
- Progress in Therapy Isn't Always Linear
- Growth in Therapy Takes Time and Patience
Therapy Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Behavioral therapy is a marathon, not a sprint. That's not to say that you'll be in therapy forever, rather, therapy can take time to create change. Just like training for a long-distance race, it requires preparation, practice, and consistency to meet your personal record, or personal goal. Therapy is a collaboration and co-creation between clinician and client in identifying links from the past to the present, identifying areas for improvement, and engaging in a supportive space. While your therapist or clinician may have the education, expertise, and training, you have the desire, choice, and follow-through of using interventions between sessions and determining what works and doesn't work for you. Just as one hour of exercise over a 1-week or 2-week period isn't effective for lasting fitness, the same can be said for your mental fitness, in that you also need to commit to doing the work between sessions to see growth in progressing in your goals.
Progress in Therapy Isn't Always Linear
One thing I wish patients knew is that progress in behavioral therapy isn't always linear. There can be ups and downs, but that's part of the process. My advice? Be patient with yourself and stay open to the experience. Therapy is a collaborative effort, and small changes can lead to significant improvements over time. It's not about being perfect; it's about taking steady steps toward a healthier mindset and life.
Growth in Therapy Takes Time and Patience
One thing I wish patients knew before starting behavioral therapy is that progress isn't always a straight line. When I first started therapy, I expected quick results, but I learned that growth takes time and patience.
If I could give advice to others, I'd say, be kind to yourself. Therapy is about small steps. Celebrate the little wins and trust the process.
