Let’s face it: You’ve been debating for a while whether or not you should go to therapy.
You tell your clients each and every day that reaching out for help is one of the strongest things they can do, that everyone can benefit from therapy, and to at least try it out before you dismiss it completely. While it might seem easy to tell these things to others, it can be difficult to tell these things to yourself.
Should therapists be required to attend therapy? Let’s find out!
Step into Your Client’s Shoes
Doctors and nurses have their own set of doctors and nurses. Teachers have their children go to other teachers. Even lawyers have their own lawyers. Just because you’re a therapist doesn’t mean you have to carry everything all on your own.
You’re allowed to have your own therapist, just like everyone else. There are many benefits to attending therapy as a therapist. For one, it’s nice to see things from your client’s perspective. When you go to therapy on your own, you’re able to step in your client’s shoes for a change. It can be a nice change of pace. Plus, you’ll be able to relate more to your clients.
Support from a Colleague
Going to therapy as a therapist is no different from a colleague venting to another colleague in any other type of profession. As a therapist, you’re bound by a strict code of ethics and privacy laws. You may not be able to discuss a lot of the things that take place during your day with friends or family members.
Having someone who understands what you’re going through can be a great way to not feel so alone or isolated.
Safe Space to Deal with Personal Issues
Chatting with another therapist can be a great way for you to get everything out in the open in a safe and secure environment. Not only are you able to spend some time during your day focused on yourself and your needs for a change, but you’re also able to process your own personal issues as well as any issues you may be holding onto from sessions with clients.
Being a therapist doesn’t mean that you’re perfect or don’t have any of your own problems. You’re human. We all are. Dealing with your own problems can help to make sure that your personal issues or opinions don’t bleed into the sessions you have with clients.
Continuing Education
Another huge benefit of therapists attending therapy is continuing education. Therapy is one of those things that no one is perfect at. Each therapist has their own specialties and approaches. No matter what, each session has to be tailored to the unique needs of each client.
Attending therapy is a great way for a therapist to get another perspective. They may pick up on different techniques or approaches that they’ll be able to apply with their clients. They may even be given certain lessons or homework assignments that may apply in some of their client sessions. The options are endless.
Next Steps
So, should therapists be required to attend therapy? The answer isn’t quite as simple as a yes or a no.
As a therapist, you know all of the benefits of attending therapy. No matter what though, it’s completely a personal choice, and no one can make that decision except for you.
Are you interested in learning more about seeking therapy as a therapist? Click here for more information. And I’d love to discuss your needs and explore whether I might be a good fit for you. Reach out to me today to set up a consultation.
