01/26/2025
Six Therapy Truths You Won’t Find in Self-Help Books (Number 6 might surprise you!)
Many people turn to therapy when self-help books fall short. Why? Because real, lasting change often requires more than tips and tricks—it needs psychoeducation, motivation, and therapeutic guidance tailored to your unique experiences.
If you’re seeking actionable insights, here are six fundamental truths about emotions and behaviors that I’ve repeatedly shared with my clients, and I’ve witnessed the transformative impact on their lives countless times:
1. Your Feelings Are Always Valid—But Thoughts and Behaviors Can Be Reframed
Feelings are real and meaningful, but the thoughts and actions that follow might not reflect the full story.
For example, imagine feeling hurt because you think no one got you a birthday gift. That sadness is valid. But what if the gift was there all along, unopened? Or what if you didn’t share what you wanted?
By checking the facts and reframing your perspective, you can shift how you feel and act. Therapy helps you untangle these patterns and build more adaptive responses.
2. Fear and Anxiety Shrink When You Face Them
Avoidance only feeds fear. The best way to reduce anxiety is to gradually face what scares you. This doesn’t mean jumping in all at once—it’s about taking small, manageable steps that help you build confidence over time.
Therapy provides tools like gradual exposure exercises to help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
3. Anger Needs Gentle Redirection
When anger flares, reacting impulsively can escalate the problem. Instead, practice mindfulness to pause, cool off, and redirect your energy.
Try taking a walk, sipping something cold, or engaging in physical activity to release the tension. When you’re ready, approach the situation with curiosity and kindness—even when it’s hard.
4. Sadness Grows in Isolation
When sadness urges you to withdraw, fight the instinct to isolate. Instead, take action—move your body, connect with others, or simply get outside.
While it’s tempting to stay in bed, engaging with life helps lift the fog of sadness. Small steps, like texting a friend or walking around the block, can make a big difference.
5. Shame Fades in Safe Connections
Shame thrives in silence. You don’t have to share your story with everyone, but talking to one trusted person who accepts you can be life-changing.
By bringing shame into the light, you can break its hold. Therapy also provides a safe space to explore shame, practice self-compassion, and rebuild your sense of worth.
6. Nightmares Can Be Rewritten
If you’re haunted by recurring nightmares, try this: before bed, rewrite the ending. Decide how you want the dream to play out, write it down, and visualize the new version.
This technique, called imagery rehearsal therapy, is proven to reduce the frequency and intensity of nightmares. It helps you reclaim control over your sleep and subconscious.
Final Thoughts
These truths aren’t always easy to practice, but they’re powerful tools for emotional growth. And when you feel stuck, therapy can guide you to apply these principles in ways that work for your unique life.
If this resonates with you, let’s connect. Drop a comment or message me—I’d love to hear your thoughts or answer your questions about therapy!
