Can Therapy Be Harmful?

The only time therapy can really be harmful is when a therapist is being unethical. Thankfully, this is exceedingly rare. That being said, therapy can be uncomfortable, even painful at times. Why is therapy uncomfortable? People often go to a therapist while feeling emotional anguish but may not know the source of this agony. Once people begin exploring this in treatment, painful memories or long-repressed emotions can arise.

Nevertheless, therapy should not be avoided because it may cause some pain and agitation at first. Many activities are painful when you first begin them but recognize their benefit later on. For instance, many runners find running painfully at first but once they find a rhythm, they recognize the benefits that can be gleaned from this form of exercise. 

It is important for us to learn and know about ourselves. We all have needs and drives but sometimes cannot articulate what drives our behaviors and emotional states. Through therapy, people can gain insight into the hidden processes that drive their motivations. Sometimes, these personal needs and desires are harmful to us in the long run. If we want to know about why we are engaging in these self-destructive activities, therapy can help but it may not be easy or comfortable.

Many times, in our culture, pain is seen as something that is always bad or something that simply needs to be extinguished as soon as possible. However, in therapy, we find that pain can also be a useful teacher. Experiencing pain is the first step to obtaining wisdom. Just like the excruciating birthing process, the discomfort of therapy can feel never-ending at times, but a good therapist will help you through this process.

Therapists recognize that since therapy can be difficult, they will check in with their clients. Therapists are trained to go slowly when a client is experiencing emotional distress and not push them too far. Therapy is designed to be a healing process. If you are struggling with the process at any time, let your therapist know. Again, discomfort is part of the process, you will get through it and be stronger for it.