When we take the step of starting therapy, we usually have very high expectations about what the process will be like and the results we will get. It is common to think that, once we start treatment, the path will always be upwards and that our life will change immediately.

However, the reality of the therapeutic process is very different. Therapy is neither a linear path nor a magical solution, but a journey of self-knowledge and learning in which there will be progress, setbacks and moments of stagnation.

In this article, we look at managing expectations so that you can make the most of your therapy process without unnecessary frustration.

What do we expect from therapy and what actually happens?

Expectation: "I'm going to therapy and my life will improve immediately".

Reality: It is true that therapy provides us with valuable tools to improve our emotional wellbeing, but it does not mean that everything will change overnight..

In the process, you will learn how to:

• Challenging irrational thoughts.
• Improving emotional management.
• Tackling difficulties with new strategies.

But life keeps happening and you will continue to face difficult times. Therapy does not avoid problemsIt gives you the resources to manage them better.

Expectation: "Every session will be a step forward".

Reality: Developments in therapy is not linear. At some points, you will feel like you are making a lot of progress, and at others you will feel like you are taking a step backwards.

• There will be weeks when you will notice big changes and feel that you are doing better.
• At other times, you will be faced with situations that will overwhelm you or in which you will not know how to apply the tools you have learned.

This does not mean that the therapy does not workbut each person has his or her own rhythm and that certain obstacles are part of learning.

Expectation: "I will always know how to apply the tools I learn".

Reality: Throughout the process, there will be times when you don't know how to react or when you find it difficult to apply what you have learned.

• Some situations will be more complex and will require time and practice.
• You won't always get the right answer straight away, and that's good.

The key is consistency. With each session, you will continue to strengthen your skills and gradually achieve better emotional management.

Therapy is a process of growth, not instant change.

Imagine therapy as a mountain with ups and downs. At times you will feel strong and move forward quickly, but at other times you will find it more difficult to move forward. This is normal and part of the process.

Remember:
- You don't need to be well all the time for therapy to work.
- Relapses or moments of stagnation do not mean that you are not making progress.
- What is important is the overall trend of improvement, not every little obstacle along the way.

Therapy does not promise you a life without problems, but it does give you the tools to cope better.

If you have doubts about the process or feel that you are not progressing as expected, talk to your therapist. Adjusting expectations is key to getting the most out of each session.

If you are ready to start your therapeutic process, at TREC Psychology we are here to accompany you every step of the way.