Therapy Rocks: Why Psychotherapy Matters
Welcome to my series, Therapy Rocks!, created in recognition of National Psychotherapy Day.
For over 20 years, I have had the privilege of witnessing women from all walks of life become more authentic, grow and transform their lives. Alongside my own personal experience of therapy, there is a strong and growing body of evidence highlighting the effectiveness of both short and long-term counselling and psychotherapy. These approaches can support meaningful and lasting change across a wide range of experiences, including anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional eating, self-worth and many other emotional, psychological and spiritual concerns.
Despite this, many people are still less inclined to invest time, energy and resources into their psychological wellbeing than they are into other areas of their lives. Often, it takes a significant crisis, burnout, relationship breakdown, health scare or a sense of hitting rock bottom before reaching out for support. In my experience, much of this suffering can be reduced, and in some cases prevented, by seeking support earlier.
National Psychotherapy Day
National Psychotherapy Day was established to raise awareness about the value and effectiveness of therapy, and to encourage more people to seek support when they need it.
Despite the evidence, there are still several barriers that prevent people from accessing therapy. Clinical psychologist Ryan Howes, founder of National Psychotherapy Day, highlights some of the key challenges:
- stigma remains for those who seek therapy
- the media often presents a distorted view of therapy and therapists
- psychotherapy lacks a unified and visible public presence
- low-cost counselling options are often limited, underfunded and overwhelmed
- many people are still unaware of therapy’s long-term effectiveness
Why This Matters
Therapy is not only for times of crisis. It is a space for self-exploration, self-discovery and developing a deeper understanding of who you are.
In my work, I often see how struggles such as emotional eating, compulsive behaviours and the feeling of not being good enough are rooted in earlier experiences, unmet needs and patterns that have developed over time. Psychotherapy offers the opportunity to explore these patterns, understand them, and begin to relate to yourself in a different way.
A Different Way Forward
Engaging in therapy is not a sign of weakness. It is an investment in your wellbeing, your relationships and your life.
Over time, therapy can support you to build self-awareness, develop healthier ways of coping, process and heal from trauma, improve your relationship with your body and self, and feel more grounded, connected and authentic.
Working Together
If you have been considering therapy, you don’t need to wait for things to get worse before reaching out. Support is available, and change is possible.
