Just Because It’s “Therapeutic” Doesn’t Mean It’s Therapy
Many activities are therapeutic but does that make them therapy? Let’s discuss some key differences.
"Reading is my therapy."
"I went to Hawaii - it was so therapeutic!"
"Going to the gym is waaay cheaper than therapy."
You’ve heard statements like these before, right? They’re everywhere as people try to express the depth of their gratitude for something they find pleasurable, healing, and necessary for their everyday enjoyment and functioning in life.
Sometimes it's hard to know the difference when something is therapeutic and when it is a form of therapy. And yes, while these things are often very meaningful and healing for people they should not be confused with therapy. Here are some key differences;
Therapy should be more than just enjoyable - in fact it may be downright uncomfortable and scary at times. When we're working on hard things, it often takes courage to go there. This is why we need someone to sit with us in the dark, to pull us out when we get too deep, to comfort us when all we want to do is run. Your therapist should be that person for you. There is nothing like the thrill of facing your deepest fears and discomforts and defeating them, coming out whole and free of that weight you have carried.
Therapy should be led by a qualified and well trained mental health provider who understands human nature, difficulties and paths to wellness that are well researched and an effective means to reach your goals as quickly as possible.
Therapy should always be goal directed - that is to say it should have an agreed upon purpose and outcomes that show that it is healing something very specific. It is rare to go into a therapy session and not know what the outcome or focus will be. There should always be a plan.
When therapy is done well, you will have a distinct end when you know your goal has been achieved and you are ready to just get on with living life to it's fullest. Therapeutic activities are crucial to survival and necessary to promote well-being and joy in life. The best part is that they do not require guidance, do not necessarily cost anything, and can be explored as often as possible. However, there is no recognizable end when they are no longer necessary.
So yes! Please continue all the wonderfully therapeutic things unique to your own passions and joy! But also know when to seek professional help - therapy that will walk you through a specific challenge and support you in living the best life you can…with all of your wonderful therapeutic supports in place, of course.
