What is Therapy and How to Get Started - Mitzie Diehl
Therapy has become a widely recognized tool for personal growth, emotional healing and mental health support. For those new to the concept, it can feel like a daunting task to take the first step. Whether you’re seeking help for a specific issue, navigating a major life change, or simply looking to better understand yourself, therapy offers a space to explore, heal and grow. In this post, I will break down what therapy is, what to expect, and how to get started.
What is therapy? At its core, therapy is a collaborative process between a trained professional (the therapist) and the individual, couple, or family seeking support. The purpose of therapy is to address challenges, explore emotions and work toward solutions or personal growth in a non-judgmental environment.
The therapists at Beyond the Storm Counseling are skilled in using evidence-based techniques to help clients gain insight into their thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. Therapy can address a wide range of concerns including but not limited to:
Anxiety and depression
Relationship issues
Grief and loss
Trauma and PTSD
Stress management
Life transitions (e.g. career changes, divorce, retirement)
Self-esteem and self-discovery.
Different types of therapy. Therapy isn’t one-size fits all. There are various approaches, each suited to different needs and goals. Some common types of therapy used at Beyond the Storm Counseling include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behavior.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is a type of talk therapy that helps people manage their intense emotions by teaching them skills to accept their feelings while also learning strategies to change unhelpful behaviors.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a treatment used to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. It utilizes bilateral stimulation such as eye moving or tapping to help change the thoughts and feelings surrounding these experiences.
Beyond the Storm Counseling also offers specialized therapy options which include:
Tabletop Role-Playing Game Group Sessions (TTRPG): TTRPG groups are designed to use role-playing games to help clients develop social skills, problem solving skills, emotional regulation, and self-awareness.
Perinatal Counseling: Perinatal counseling is a type of therapy to help pregnant or postpartum clients and their partners navigate the emotional challenges that come with pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
Why consider therapy? Therapy isn’t just for people in crisis - it’s for anyone looking to improve their mental well-being. Benefits can include:
Gaining clarity and perspective when dealing with challenging life situations.
Learning healthy coping mechanisms.
Building stronger relationships.
Processing unresolved emotions.
Improving self-awareness and self-esteem.
Much like you visit a doctor for physical health, therapy supports your mental and emotional health.
How to start the therapeutic process at Beyond the Storm Counseling. Starting your mental health journey at Beyond the Storm Counseling is a straightforward process. Simply visit the contact us page on our website https://www.beyondthestormcounseling.com/contact and complete the appropriate intake form packet. It is important you answer the questions as thoroughly as possible as this information allows us to match you with the therapist we believe best suited to your individual needs. Once the intake forms are submitted, our office will create a client portal account for you. Through the portal you will be able to access and sign a few additional required forms.
Our team will then verify your insurance, provide an estimated cost of services via email, and follow up to schedule your therapy sessions. We are committed to making the process seamless and ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an act of courage and self-care. Whether you’re seeking support for a specific challenge or looking to enhance your overall well-being, therapy can provide the tools, insights, and space to help you thrive. At Beyond the Storm Counseling, we’re here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. Investing in your mental health is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. When you are ready, we are here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
