What ‘Doing the Work’ Means in Therapy

Doing the work in therapy involves actively engaging in the therapeutic process and committing to personal growth and healing. It means taking intentional steps towards self-improvement through self-healing and self-love, whatever that means to you.

• Committing to Yourself Every Day: Making a daily commitment to personal growth and self-care 
• Observing and Responding to Emotions: Learning how to observe all emotions and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively 
• Defining and Holding Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries and maintaining them firmly 
• Releasing Control: Letting go of things that cannot be controlled and focusing on what can be managed 
• Sitting in Discomfort: Allowing oneself to sit in discomfort and explore it, rather than avoiding it through distractions 

Doing the work in therapy is a challenging but rewarding journey that involves self-reflection, growth, and healing. It requires dedication and a willingness to face difficult emotions and experiences and build a tolerance for discomfort. It also includes taking action between sessions in order to integrate and add to the work done during the therapy hour.

Common Misconceptions About Therapy

Some misconceptions about therapy stop people from starting their healing journey. They may think it’s just a place to complain or vent, it is for people who are weak or not independent, only for mentally ill folks, that the therapist will judge you, or that talking about your problems will make them worse. These misconceptions are incorrect. 

Talking about problems in therapy can help individuals understand and manage their emotions, learn better communication skills, try on other perspectives, achieve long-lasting change, and heal from upsetting events.

The Emotional Labor Involved

Processing pain, unlearning old habits, and building healthier coping strategies.

The Role of the Therapist vs. The Client

Therapy is a partnership; the client must engage in the process, reflect on their thoughts, feelings, sensations, and behavior, and apply the tools in order to make change. However, the client is the expert on their life and their experiences. 

The therapist is there to add resources, clarity, guidance, support, witnessing, and offering a safe, confidential space in which to heal and grow.

Examples of ‘The Work’

In truth, it takes strength and courage to acknowledge one’s struggles and seek help.  Attending therapy sessions and not doing the work will result in little to no change. During sessions, new skills are learned, and in between sessions, they are practiced. 

A therapist is there to witness and respond to your experiences, and in between sessions, journaling, challenging negative thoughts, and practicing boundaries in real-life settings, continue the work.

Why It’s Worth It

• Sustainable change and a feeling of empowerment
• Deeper self-awareness and understanding
• Improved relationships and communication
• Emotional freedom and self-worth

Start Your Journey of Growth

Reach out to our team of therapists by filling out our quick form below and start your therapeutic journey today.