Therapy is for Everybody
The Case for Therapy: A Guide to Healing and Growth
The world right now may seem dark, because in all actuality it is– we are inundated with the horrors of the world all from the palm of our hands. I don’t think humans were meant to witness so much pain and death in 20 second soundbits. It is traumatizing. And so I write this blog as a way to welcome you in and to remind you that you can be whole and well in a world that is sick. I believe that the more people who are well within, the more likely we can start to change the world for the better. We heal ourselves so that we can heal each other. Therapy is not a one stop shop to fix everything, but I do know that mental health has become an increasingly important topic of discussion, and furthermore an important thing we need to address.
Despite growing awareness of the necessity of mental health and the increase of violence we witness daily, many people still hesitate to seek help for emotional struggles and mental health issues, often this is because of stigma or misunderstanding about what therapy truly is. For me, and the way I practice therapy, therapy is not just about managing mental illness—it's about understanding oneself, healing from past experiences, and fostering long-term personal growth so that we can be in community with each other. If you’ve ever wondered whether therapy might be for you, keep reading and allow yourself to be open. I will explore the benefits of therapy and how healing is not only possible but attainable.
What Is Therapy?
The purpose of therapy (counseling or psychotherapy) is to help individuals navigate emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges that impact their daily life. The hope is that therapy creates a safe space where clients can talk openly about their feelings, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. A licensed clinical therapist works with clients to explore these issues, identify patterns of behavior or thinking that may be limiting them, and develop strategies for overcoming challenges.
In my professional opinion, therapy should be a collaborative process between the client and therapist. There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution because each person, client, comes in with their own unique experiences and understanding of the world. The therapist is working with the client to explore and discover personalized coping strategies. There are so many different types of therapeutic modalities. I am a trauma-informed therapist and incorporate a holistic approach using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), to name a few. In another blog, I can go over these specifically. Each of these modalities target different aspects of mental and emotional health. And as you are contemplating taking a step forward in your own healing journey, it’s important to know that therapy is for everybody but not every therapist or treatment program is for everyone. And that’s because each of our experiences are personal to us and therefore, our therapy needs to be too.
Healing Is Possible
The most important message I want to convey in this blog is that healing is possible. Therapy can be a tool and a resource for you on your healing journey. As a therapist, my goal is to help individuals understand the root causes of their distress and empower them to take steps toward emotional recovery. Here’s how therapy helps in the healing process:Building Self Awareness— Therapy is an opportunity for self-reflection and introspection! Through guided conversations, you’ll have the chance to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By becoming more aware of how past experiences shape your current responses, you can begin to invite more grace in and to start to unlearn harmful patterns and develop healthier ways of coping with challenges.
Processing Emotions— Often, people repress or avoid emotions/feelings. I create a safe and warm environment where clients can process their emotions at their own pace. Whether it’s grief, anger, or fear, facing and expressing these feelings is an essential step in the healing journey. In doing so, individuals can release pent-up emotional energy and begin to let go of the burden they’ve carried.
Changing Negative Thought Patterns— Trauma and emotional pain often lead to negative self-talk and distorted thinking. I will help you recognize harmful thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives. This shift in thinking can alleviate feelings of worthlessness, anxiety, or hopelessness and replace them with self-compassion and optimism.
Rebuilding Relationships— Trauma can affect how we interact with others. It can cause mistrust, difficulty with intimacy, or isolation. I will help you learn how to be in a healthy relationship with yourself and teach you how to rebuild relationships and create healthier dynamics. Whether it’s familial, romantic, or professional relationships, you’ll learn the tools to establish boundaries, communicate effectively, and rebuild trust.
Providing a Support System— Sometimes, healing begins with simply knowing that someone is there to listen. I use an empathetic approach, listening first and validating your experience. In a world where many of us feel isolated in our pain, therapy provides a supportive, non-judgmental space where you are allowed to be vulnerable and express yourself fully.
Developing Coping Strategies— Healthy coping strategies are crucial for emotional well-being. I teach practical tools and techniques to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional triggers. Whether through mindfulness, relaxation techniques, or reframing negative thoughts, I help individuals cultivate resilience and emotional regulation.
Therapy Is for Everyone
Like I said before, therapy is for everyone but not every therapist or treatment program is for everybody. Therapy can be beneficial for anyone seeking personal growth or needing support through life’s challenges. Whether you're dealing with everyday stress, relationship difficulties, career changes, or simply feeling stuck, therapy can offer valuable insights and guidance. It is a space where you get to learn yourself and love yourself a little more.
Therapy is not a sign of weakness; it’s a proactive and courageous step toward self-improvement. It takes strength to face your struggles head-on and seek help. Just as physical health requires regular check-ups, mental health also deserves attention and care. If you’ve experienced trauma, are struggling with emotional pain, or just want to learn more about yourself, therapy can be a vital tool for healing.
How to Get Started
If you’re considering therapy, know that you don’t have to go through this journey alone. The first step is often the hardest, but once you take it, you’ll be on the path to greater emotional well-being. I’m here to help guide you through the healing process, and you can find more information about therapy services on my website atwww.amberberkins.com. Whether you’re dealing with past trauma or seeking personal growth, therapy offers a transformative experience that can lead to long-lasting change.
