Deciding to start psychotherapy in Munich is an important decision for many expats. Will the therapist speak English well enough? Will they understand me and my concerns depite not being an expat themselves? And then there is the question about which approach will be the fitting one for me?
There are more than 450 documented therapeutic approaches, and therefore an abundance of options to choose from. I work integratively, which means that I draw on many different therapeutic approaches and psychological tools. I always strive to make this a collaborative effort, explaining to my clients how they can benefit from a specific approach or exercise.
Here are some key insights into counselling and therapy that may help you determine whether you’re ready to begin psychotherapy in Munich:
1. Therapy is demanding.
Therapy is not for the faint of heart. You will be asked to open up to a stranger and challenge things that you have previously and purposely left untouched.
2. Therapy will be helpful.
By talking about yourself and reflecting together, you will not only be able to understand yourself better but also learn to accept how your experiences may influence you. Difficulties make us grow and it is okay to ask for help.
3. Therapy may take some time.
Time to get used to it, time to fully engage, time to accept, time to heal. It may be necessary to start therapy, take a break, and come back again. There is no rule of thumb. It simply takes as long as it does and it depends on what you want to achieve. Psychotherapy is different for everyone.
4. Therapy does not have the answers – you do!
Many clients come to me with questions they seek answers to. But most of the time therapy responds differently than anticipated. The answers might be unexpected, surprising, or even disliked. Most importantly, however, therapy also responds to the unasked questions.
5. Therapy is collaborative.
Psychotherapy only works if both sides are working together. Therapy is like a boomerang and you will get as much out of it as you are willing to put into it.
Therapeutic work does not only happen in the session but continues outside. This includes reflecting on the session itself or the things that are going on in everyday life, practicing the tools you have been introduced to, or talking about your progress with someone you trust.
6. Therapy does not judge.
It does not matter what issue(s) you are bringing to the session or how big or small you feel your issues are. It is not important where you are from, how old you are, who or what you believe in, what you have lived through, or where you stand in life.
7. Therapy is about you!
Therapy provides an opportunity for self-reflection and growth, which can help you understand yourself, your environments and your relationships in a different way.