Navigating therapy can sometimes feel like walking through uncharted territory, especially when historical and systemic issues in healthcare have left many feeling marginalized. For the Black community’s, past experiences of being undervalued or misunderstood in medical settings can lead to a sense of passivity in therapeutic environments. However, therapy should be a space of empowerment, not subordination. This blog aims to shift that perspective and encourage you to take proactive, bold steps in your therapy sessions.
Therapy is your space. In this space is a unique opportunity where you are encouraged to explore and heal without judgment. The therapist’s office is one of the few places where you can, and should, feel completely entitled to focus on your needs. Remember, your therapist is there to facilitate your journey, but you can steer it.
Strategies for Being Proactive in Therapy:
- Ask Hard Questions: Don’t shy away from asking tough questions that can help you understand your therapy journey better. Ask your therapist about their treatment methods, what outcomes you might expect, or clarify any doubts you have about the process.
- Challenge Old Narratives: Many of us carry old narratives that no longer serve us—stories about our identities, capabilities, or worth. Use your time in therapy to challenge these narratives and explore new perspectives that align more with who you are and where you’re going.
- Set Clear Goals: Begin your therapy sessions by setting clear goals with your therapist. What do you hope to achieve through therapy? Having a clear direction can make your sessions more targeted and feel more empowering.
- Be Open About Your Experiences: Openly discuss any hesitations or past negative experiences with healthcare that may affect your ability to fully engage in therapy. A good therapist will appreciate your honesty and work with you to create a more comfortable and supportive environment.
- Take Charge of Your Healing: Because healing is a personal journey, you have the right to tailor your therapy experience to suit your needs. Whether it’s requesting a different approach or seeking a therapist who better understands your cultural background, you are in control.
Your therapy should be a collaborative process, but you are the lead collaborator. Stepping into a therapy session with a mindset of empowerment can transform the experience from one where you feel like a passive participant to one where you are an active director of your own healing journey.
If you’re ready to start your therapy journey or are looking to redefine it, remember these tips. You deserve to make the most out of your sessions, advocating for yourself and your mental health. For more insights and guidance on thriving in therapy, check out my YouTube video on “5 Things About Therapy You Probably Didn’t Know.”
