Everyone can use a little extra support and encouragement when handling life’s challenges . In fact, research shows that verbalizing feelings can have a significant therapeutic effect on the brain. In other words, getting your worries out in the open— particularly with someone trained to help you manage what surfaces — is a good thing for your overall health and well-being.
A huge benefit of talk therapy is that its effects are long-lasting. This is because you’re not only working through challenges, but you’re also developing the tools to help you deal with things that surface in the future. And, it can sometimes be easier to talk with a stranger rather than a relative or friend because the counselor or therapist is unbiased and they listen, ask thoughtful questions, and have access to effective treatment strategies for individuals, couples, and families.
Marriage and family therapy is a branch of psychotherapy that works with individuals, couples, families and relational groups to nurture change and development. Marriage and family therapists are trained to view change in terms of family systems and look at the the interaction between family members, family relationships and psychological characteristics. Marriage and family therapists often consider family as “strongly supportive, long-term roles and relationships between people who may or may not be related by blood or marriage.” It is nuanced to act as a change agent for individuals and families.
Seeking therapy shows strength, courage, and resilience. It is known for its many benefits including decreasing challenges with daily living, increasing joy and contentment, enhancing relationships, improving overall functioning, reducing social isolation, improving overall health and opening doors to engaging fully with yourself and others.
Written by Leila J. Erlandson, MA, LMFT
Trovarti Counseling LLC 