Why Does Therapy Work?
Many people doubt that therapy works. However, the fact that therapy promotes positive changes in people's lives is explained by scientific research. Specifically, such a phenomenon as neuroplasticity stands behind the reason why therapy works. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and grow as a reaction to new experiences. In other words, the brain builds new neurons and neuronal connections in response to new stimuli. Such stimuli can be new knowledge learned in therapy, gaining a new perspective on old situations, restructuring old negative thoughts, and learning new coping skills. Therefore, neuroplasticity takes place throughout a person’s life and allows one to change their behavior and mental state.
Traumatic events, adverse childhood and adult life experiences, or ongoing personal stress alter neuronal connections and put the body into the mode of depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders. Consequently, depression and anxiety create physical and mental symptoms that make people think that they cannot be helped or lose hope for a more fulfilling life. Here is where psychotherapy becomes helpful. Talking to a therapist is one of the few ways to change brain neuroplasticity. One of the main goals of psychotherapy is to increase the quality of a person’s life, develop resiliency, and alleviate patients’ suffering. Changing old beliefs about yourself and the world around you, working on self-esteem, instilling new patterns of behavior, and learning new coping skills promote biological changes and, as a result, alleviate depression and anxiety. Doing sports on a regular basis, creating art, learning a new trade or profession, maintaining social interactions, and practicing meditation are also among the many ways to increase your well-being by stimulating neuroplasticity.
Occasionally, we may become disappointed that the desired results of psychotherapy are not instant. However, it is important to remember that changes take place gradually. The good indicators that therapy has started to work are, to name a few, an improvement in mood, the ability to manage anger constructively, and an increased ability to question negative automatic thoughts and process unpleasant emotions and feelings. The length of therapy depends on the person’s needs and the severity of the symptoms. Some people may just need a few sessions to resolve a personal conflict, while others may need months in order to feel relief from symptoms. Your therapist sets goals specific to your needs and uses evidence-based, scientific methods in the treatment plan. Additionally, occasional relapses into old thinking patterns are normal. It's crucial to keep in mind to be kind to yourself and give yourself appreciation for being open to change and starting the journey of self-discovery.
February 16, 2023