How Will Talking About the Past Help Me?

People often tell me they're hesitant to go to therapy because they doubt much can come from "bitching" or ruminating on childhood wounds. If you feel this way, consider two things:

1) Therapy doesn't have to be a venting session, nor does it have to include hours of discussions about your mother. Many therapists offer a solutions-focused, future-oriented approach. In my practice, I use action-oriented approaches such as drama therapy, skills training, and goal coaching.

‎2) Looking at the past may feel counterproductive. After all, you can't do anything about it now, right? Wrong.

Research shows that our childhood relationships literally determine our brain development. If you grew up in an unpredictable or difficult environment (even if only in some aspects), your body may have learned to be anxious, depressed, or have a hard time in your adult relationships. 

Reviewing your memories and making sense of your life story with a therapist can actually rewire your brain and give you a form of physical integration that promotes health and happiness.