“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that’s mentionable can be more manageable.” —Fred Rogers
Some sessions are filled with a-ha moments, wake-up calls and something palpable in the room that leaves both therapist and client with a lingering feeling or two long after the 50 minutes has come and gone.
Other sessions aren’t as show-stopping, and that is perfectly okay and even essential in the healing work of humans.
There are also sessions that start with a client apologizing for not having anything to talk about, and we find ourselves unearthing some understanding that surprises us both.
In short, there are no right or wrong things to talk about in therapy. You don’t have to prepare a PowerPoint presentation (although some do). All you need to bring with you is an openness to face your own humanity in safe company.
So, what are the usual suspects in therapy?
Anxiety, depression and stress management. Discovering Coping mechanisms.
Deep-diving into your thoughts, feelings and emotions/what makes you tick and why.
Exploring relationship patterns and dynamics. With self and important others. Improving communication, emotional intimacy, trust. Breaking cycles.
Navigating life transitions of every shape and size.
Building self-worth, self-image, self-esteem, self-confidence, self-trust, self-respect, self-care and self-love.
Unpacking trauma and the past. Healing the inner child. Grieving what is and what could have been.
Thinking about the future. Dreams. Finding direction for what’s next.
Reflecting on sex, sexuality and sexual shame.
Facing fears and leaning into exposure therapy.
Learning how to advocate for your own wants and needs and setting healthy boundaries.
Investigating emotional triggers, feelings identification, expression and regulation.
Uncovering shadow parts, self-sabotage, perfectionism, people-pleasing and blind spots.
Examining identity, values, belief systems and authenticity. Coming out of your closet.
Locating found and chosen family.
That thing you’ve been avoiding.
And so much more.
Final Thoughts
Therapy is for everyone, and everyone’s therapy looks a little different. For some, it’s the first time someone has really listened to them, the first time someone has validated their reality, the first time someone has told them they aren’t crazy for feeling the ways they do.
Therapy is for when you feel like you’re drowning and for when you feel like you’re strolling down easy street. Therapy is a grounding place that you can always come back to in times of hurt and hope. You don’t need to have something “wrong” with you to go to therapy. Everyone deserves someone to talk to about the storms and sunny skies in life, someone who is solely dedicated to you living a more fulfilling, satisfying story.
CAITLYN CRAWFORD COUNSELING
Caitlyn is an LGBTQ+, Couples’, Womens’ and Teens’ Therapist in Kansas City, MO.
She is currently practicing at KC Well Co. in Midtown.
Contact & Booking: