What is therapy actually like?
Today’s podcast episode is with Natalie Williams, a solicitor and mental health advocate who decided to seek out therapy in order to gain a better understanding of herself and feelings that were holding her back. Natalie discusses her initial apprehension towards therapy, how it gave her the tools to approach problems in her life and how essential a good therapist/client relationship is.
The concept of finding the right therapist at the right time is also covered, particularly in relation to moving on from harmful feelings and relationships.
Also discussed:
(1:16) Introductions
(2:33) Therapy in mental health and how it can still be stigmatised in comparison to other aspects of the mental health discussion, when it should be normalised
(4:25) Natalie’s personal experience with therapy, how it began due to feelings of uncertainty regarding a relationship and feelings that were holding her back, personal development
(8:21) How Natalie approached therapy even with some apprehension she had towards it, regarding outcomes, the difference between the stigma and the reality of therapy and how therapy can give you tools to approach problems in your life
(11:26) The knowledge and different outlook aspect of therapy/therapists, how it’s like training and being challenged mentally because it’s okay to not have all of the answers
(14:26) The importance of the client/therapist relationship on how you’ll view therapy and benefit from it
(22:31) Finding the right therapist at the right time, how therapy can contribute to ongoing skills/thought processes long after therapy has finished, the process of thinking about telling others
(25:52) Interacting with others and utilising skills you’ve gained through therapy, taking what therapy has given and using it yourself, moving on from things that are harmful for you
(29:14) The process of moving cities and working through things on your own and continuing forwards without therapy
(31:15) Reinforcing the positive voice, trying to work through emotions such as anger, finding the right counsellor
(41:21) Closing comments
https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that starts engaging and approachable conversations around mental health.
Join wellbeing advocate Alice Lyons as she attempts to normalise the conversation around mental health, from suicide to satisfaction and everything in between.
Dark Coffee aims to create a safe space to explore dark topics with curiosity, compassion and courage to empower people to build their mental strength, resilience and sense of connection.
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Suicide and Emotional Support Organisations - UK
Samaritans: Confidential suicide discussion and emotional support. Free helpline available round the clock. Text - 116123. Call - 08457 909090 Email - jo@samaritans.org. Website - www.samaritans.org
Mind: Support and information for anyone suffering from a mental health issue. 0300 123 3393 Website - Mind.org.uk
Saneline: Practical information, crisis care and emotional support to people affected by mental health concerns. Helpline: 0845 767 8000, open daily from 6pm – 11pm.
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