Introduction to
Therapy
Starting Therapy Can Feel overwhelming
Not sure what to expect from therapy? Keep reading. This part is for you.
We understand. Taking the first step can be pretty tough.
At some point, we've each been where you are right now. And yes - therapists have our own therapists!
Questions, uncertainty, hesitation, anxiety, and fear of what you might find out are all expected feelings.
Show up as you are, where you are, and it will be a journey like you've never had before.
What Is Therapy?
Therapy is a collaborative process that you engage in with a qualified therapist and a certain outcome in mind. It can involve conversation, exploration, a few exercises or 'homework', learning and applying helpful techniques, and a lot of self-discovery.
As you engage with your therapist, you build trust. You unpack past experiences, identify and untangle old habits, and process difficult feelings without judgment in a safe, comfortable, and confidential setting.
Though this process, you gain a better understanding of your thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and behaviours. Your therapist works with you to find your own answers to questions.
Did you know?
While therapy can help people in crisis and those wanting to 'fix' something, it can also play an important part in personal growth.
Therapy is for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of themselves.
Reasons To Try Therapy
Clients come to therapy for many reasons. Maybe there's a specific problem or challenge you'd like to work through, or you're looking to understand yourself better.
Sometimes we seek therapy because we feel stuck and aren't sure what to do.
Therapy can help with:
Mental Health Concerns
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Trauma
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Chronic Stress
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Phobias
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Unhealthy Eating
Relationships
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Understanding & resolving conflict
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Bridging communication challenges
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Establishing healthy boundaries
Life Challenges
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Addressing burnout
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Unpacking career stress
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Navigating parenting strains
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Moving through grief
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Major life transitions
Personal Growth
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Building self-esteem
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Unlocking confidence
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Finding identity
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Creating emotional regulation
What do you want out of therapy?
Types of Therapy
There are many types of therapeutic modalities. Some are better suited to certain problems than others. EMDR is just one type of therapy available. While it's the primary modality at our clinic, it's not the only approach we use. Our therapists are trained in different therapy approaches, and together you'll explore the ones most suitable for you.
Therapies We Practice:
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
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Internal Family Systems (IFS)
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Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
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Indigenous Focusing-Oriented Therapy (IFOT)
Why We Love EMDR:
There are two main reasons why EMDR is a primary therapeutic modality at our clinic.
Reason #1
EMDR is a trauma therapy. It turns out that trauma (big-T or little-t) is connected to many concerns people seek therapy for. We think of trauma as linked to PTSD and C-PTSD, which is true. Hidden, unknown, or unresolved trauma can also show up as anxiety, depression, phobias, and mood disorders. Trauma can be the cause of different (often negative) beliefs of ourselves that lead to unhealthy relationships, chronic stress, burnout, eating disorders, and other undesirable outcomes.
Reason #2
EMDR connects to and targets the root of the issue. Many therapies teach management strategies and coping techniques. While these have a place, the client doesn't necessarily get better. The really cool thing about EMDR is that instead of treating symptoms, EMDR helps people actually get better.
Common Therapy Myths
Myth #1
Therapy is for people with serious issues, or someone in crisis.
Reality
People seek therapy for things we all experience: to help them reduce stress, navigate relationships, improve self-esteem, and generally manage life better. Yes, some come to therapy when they've had a major trauma. And some people come to therapy to better understand their emotional and behavioural patterns, and for general personal growth.
Myth #2
A therapist will tell me what to do.
Reality
Therapy is a collaborative process. Your therapist provides you with information, exercises, insight, and strategies. But therapy is not a prescriptive experience. The therapist is your partner in the process.
Myth #3
Therapy is about blaming your parents for everything.
Reality
Therapy is about seeking to understand and moving beyond. Childhood experiences may inform the understanding of your core beliefs and behavioural patterns, but it's only part of the picture.
Myth #4
Going to therapy means I'm weak.
Reality
Quite the opposite! Going to therapy takes courage and strength. Stigma associated with mental health support has changed and continues to evolve. Let's keep the momentum going!
Or submit the form below to start the conversation.
Just Say 'Hi'.
If you're looking for more information about therapy, EMDR specifically, or to assess whether we are a good fit for you, we invite you to reach out using the contact form. Alternatively try
email: info@kelownaemdr.ca, or
phone: 236.301.6245