What is Therapy Really Like?

Are you unsure of whether therapy is right for you? Did you book your first appointment and are now waiting nervously for the day to come?

At Herr-Era Mental Health, we get it! Scheduling your first therapy session can be an intimidating process. To help make it easier for you, here is some more insight on what to expect:

• What Does Therapy Entail?

  Therapy is an hour completely dedicated to YOU! It’s a confidential, empowering, and supportive space where you’re able to talk openly about your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. Sessions typically involve guided conversations that help you gain insight, develop coping healthy tools, and analyze your relationships to make meaningful changes in your life. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and treatment plan, as well as set to your pace.

• Will I Get Something Out of Therapy?

  Absolutely!! Most people find therapy meaningful and beneficial in different ways. Whether you’re working through anxiety, stress, trauma, or personal growth, therapy offers tools to better understand yourself and navigate life’s many hills and valleys. Therapy helps you feel seen; you learn to feel confident, calm, and connected. However, it’s important to note that the more open and engaged you are, the more you’ll get out of the experience!

• What’s The Point of Therapy?

  The purpose of therapy is to help your whole self feel better: emotionally, mentally, and physically! We talk about everything and anything! It’s a space to unpack what’s weighing on you, build resilience, and learn practical strategies for a more balanced life. Therapy can support your healing from past experiences to help support you creating healthier habits for the future!

• What Techniques Do Therapists Use?

  Therapy isn’t just “talking!” We use evidence-based and clinical approaches like Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic psychotherapy, and strengths-based systems. These tools are backed by literature and designed to help you understand your emotions, tap into your past, shift unhelpful patterns, and develop new coping skills. Every therapist tailors their methods to fit your unique personality, goals, and pace. It’s always a collaborative process, and you will never need to feel “forced” to pursue a type of therapy you don’t resonate with. Some people prefer homework, and some don’t! It’s your choice every step of the way!

• Is Therapy Really Confidential?

  Therapy really is confidential and private! With a few safety exceptions and legal concerns, everything that you share stays between you and your therapist. This is true even for minors, though parents are often brought in as collaborators for treatment. This confidentiality helps create a safe, judgment-free environment where you can be fully YOU!

• Are Therapy Consultations Free?

  Yes! At Herr-Era Mental Health, we offer free consultations! This gives you 15 minutes to discuss your concerns, questions, and learn more about whether we’re the right fit for you! Therapy is an investment for your well-being; finding the right fit matters! Please take advantage of this call!

• Can Therapy Help With Anxiety, Depression, or ADHD?

  Definitely! Literature shows us that therapy is a highly effective treatment for anxiety, depression, and ADHD. It offers practical strategies to manage symptoms, build coping skills, and improve daily functioning. Many people feel that therapy not only increases their distress tolerance but also helps them feel more confident and in control of their lives.

• Does Therapy Make Things Worse?

  The truth is, therapy can be very difficult. It intentionally points a finger at the things our brains and bodies have defended us against for years. We may also start to notice unhealthy patterns that we hadn’t noticed before. This disruption is uncomfortable and can be very stressful. However, it is completely necessary for healing!

• How Can Therapy Change Your Life?

  Therapy feels like freedom! Imagine a space completely dedicated to YOU! Fully focused on everything you need and everything you want to work towards. It’s a beautiful and scary thing!

What other questions do you have? We’re here to help and answer!

Schedule your free consultation or use the submission box to send any questions you would like answered.

At Herr-Era Mental Health, we’re bilingual therapists here to help teens, college students, and young adults confidently navigate self-discovery and healing.

You’re not alone in this! We’ll get through it together!