What is a Therapist Supposed to Do: The Role of a Therapist
Ever wondered what is a therapist is supposed to do? Explore the essential roles, techniques, and benefits of therapy in our comprehensive guide to mental wellness.
Therapists play such an important role in mental health care, but knowing exactly what they do can sometimes be a mystery. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or simply curious, you’ve probably asked what is a therapist supposed to do?
I was a therapist (LCSW) for a year before I decided to focus solely on school social work, and I would also ask myself this question when first starting out. What I loved about therapy is that there is no one size fits all way to be a clinician. From the various modalities, theories, and personalities, there is always a right therapist out there for someone.
Understanding what therapists do can demystify the process as well as help ease your nerves or concerns in receiving mental health support. So this post is all about the role of therapist, how to find the right therapist, and ways they contribute to overall mental wellness.
What is a Therapist Supposed To Do: The Essential Roles of a Therapist
Here is a breakdown of the several roles of a therapist:
1. Providing Emotional Support
At the heart of therapy lies the aspect of emotional support. Therapists create a safe and confidential space where clients can express their feelings, fears, and challenges without judgment. This supportive environment is crucial for fostering trust and openness. Building rapport is our main focus when starting out in sessions as it is the foundation for growth.
2. Diagnosing Mental Health Conditions
Therapists are trained to identify and diagnose various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. Through detailed assessments and diagnostic tools, they can determine the root causes of emotional and psychological distress.
It’s important to note that particularly when working with insurances, they often require a diagnosis to be able to be compensated for the sessions. So even if you go in to services for something minor or for maintenance, we are still required to diagnose even if its something like an “adjustment disorder.”
3. Developing Treatment Plans
Once a diagnosis is made, therapists work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized treatment plans. These plans may include a combination of therapy sessions, medication (if prescribed by a psychiatrist), and self-care strategies. Patients are required to sign-off on these so be sure to review and understand your goals in therapy as you move forward in sessions.
4. Teaching Coping Mechanisms
Therapists equip clients with practical coping mechanisms to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. These skills can range from mindfulness exercises to cognitive-behavioral techniques that help reframe negative thought patterns. Therapists may spend a lot of time on coping mechanisms as well as refer back to them throughout therapy, it is sooo important!
5. Facilitating Behavioral Change
Therapy often involves helping clients change maladaptive behaviors. Whether it’s overcoming addiction, improving relationships, or managing anger, therapists guide clients through the process of behavioral change using evidence-based methods. This is why building rapport and having strong coping mechanisms is so important, as behavioral change is the ultimate goal.
6. Offering Psychoeducation
An important aspect of therapy is educating clients about their mental health conditions. Understanding the nature of one’s issues can empower individuals to take an active role in their healing process. I remember when I began receiving therapy of my own, I truly valued understanding my diagnosis, why I was engaging in certain behaviors, and how we planned on changing them. It can be really powerful!
Finding the Right Therapist
Finding the right therapist is crucial for effective therapy. Here are some tips to help you in your search:
1. Identify Your Needs
Consider what you’re seeking help for – whether it’s anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, or another concern. Different therapists specialize in different areas.
2. Check Credentials
Ensure that the therapist is licensed and has the appropriate credentials. Look for qualifications such as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
3. Ask for Recommendations
Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare providers can be valuable. Personal experiences can give you insights into a therapist’s approach and effectiveness.
4. Research Online
Use online directories and reviews to find therapists in your area. Websites like PsychologyToday.com offer detailed profiles of therapists, including their specialties, approaches, and contact information.
5. Schedule Consultations
Many therapists offer initial consultations to see if there’s a good fit. Use this opportunity to ask questions about their approach, experience, and how they can help you with your specific concerns.
What to Expect in Therapy Sessions
What is a therapist supposed to do each session? Here’s a general overview:
1. The First Session
The first session typically involves an intake process where the therapist gathers information about your background, current issues, and goals for therapy. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions and get a feel for the therapist’s style.
There’s often this misconception that it would be hard to open up to a complete stranger, but as someone who’s been in the therapist chair and the client couch it is common to open up a lot the first session.
2. Setting Goals
Together with your therapist, you’ll set specific, achievable goals. These could be short-term (like managing a panic attack) or long-term (like improving self-esteem). This is what your sessions will be focused around moving forward so it’s important to work collaboratively with your therapist in this process.
3. Regular Sessions
Therapy sessions usually last about 50 minutes and occur weekly, though the frequency can vary. Consistency is key to making progress!
These regular sessions will be focused on reaching treatment goals, however it is often NOT in a formal manner. It’s important to bring current events occurring in your day to day and utilize those experiences to help you reach your goals.
4. Homework Assignments
Therapists often give homework to reinforce what was discussed in sessions. This might include journaling, practicing coping techniques, or reading relevant materials. I often tell people that the real work is done outside of sessions and it’s important to follow-through on these tasks.
5. Periodic Reviews
Your therapist will periodically review your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Open communication about what’s working and what’s not is crucial! Never be afraid to share your honest feedback and concerns as they arise.
The Transformative Power of Therapy
Therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth and healing. Here are some benefits you might experience:
1. Improved Mental Health
Regular therapy can alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, leading to improved overall well-being. The timeline for growth is different for everybody. Some may see improved symptoms with their mental health in a matter of weeks and others may take months! It’s all about staying consistent and making the effort when you can.
2. Better Relationships
Therapy can enhance your communication skills, empathy, and understanding, leading to healthier relationships with friends, family, and partners. From the psychoeducation and insight from the therapist to being able to process with a professional, there’s various ways to improve relationships with others.
3. Increased Self-Awareness
Through self-exploration, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your motivations, and your behaviors, which can lead to more informed life choices.
4. Enhanced Coping Skills
Learning effective coping strategies can help you manage stress, navigate challenges, and maintain emotional balance in difficult situations.
5. Personal Empowerment
Therapy fosters a sense of empowerment, enabling you to take control of your mental health and make positive changes in your life!
This post answered the question: what is a therapist supposed to do? If you enjoyed it, be sure to check out my other posts!
