In therapy, you’re engaging in a professional health practice designed to help manage and improve mental health. One of the many misconceptions when it comes to therapy is that it’s only for people with big trauma, deeply rooted issues, or a diagnosed mental illness. The truth is that talking to a mental health professional any time, before you’re in a crisis mode, is one of the best ways to equip yourself with tools and skills for times when life throws you a curveball. It can be preventative as well as healing.
Therapy (counselling, psychotherapy, or counselling therapy) is a collaborative process of working
with a trained mental health professional to work through psychological, emotional, neurodevelopmental, or behavioural challenges. These issues often intertwine and, when neglected, can make day-to-day life more challenging than it needs to be.
The goal of therapy is to help people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to overcome distress, or to support personal growth and development. Therapy provides an opportunity for clients to develop strategies in order to cope with challenges and improve their wellbeing. Such skills can be especially beneficial for those living with diagnosed mental health conditions or illnesses.
Approximately 1 in 5 Canadians struggle with their mental health each year. Therapy can be an essential resource that offers the tools and strategies to cope and manage through life’s challenges. For many, it’s necessary for managing mental health conditions and illness.
- Written by Nicole Laoutaris
