When Therapy Doesn’t Help: Why You’re Still Stuck | E501

If therapy feels like talking in circles, you’re not un-helpable. Your therapy might be the wrong kind of help. In today’s episode we’re talking about the big fat elephant in the therapy room: The disconnect between what therapists actually do, and what people are expecting to get out of it.

Listen to get clarity about what therapy is actually designed to do, and more importantly what therapy is not—and how to choose the right support.

The truth is that evidence based psychotherapy can be a literal life-saver. If you’re dealing with mental health issues, getting connected with a good, competent therapist can make all the difference between suffering, struggling, and having a nice life. Psychotherapy is valid, important, and effective for the treatment of mental health conditions. 

But what about the 50% of people who show up for therapy who aren’t dealing with a mental health condition? Who are there to learn, grow, and develop themselves so that we can get traction in our lives, and have support to get where we want to go? 

Those people? So many of them walk away from therapy feeling frustrated, stuck, or even wondering if they’re the problem. In this episode, I’m getting real about why therapy sometimes falls flat—and how you can reclaim your growth by understanding the actual purpose and process of therapy vs coaching.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why traditional therapy sometimes feels like “talking in circles” (and why it’s not your fault)

• What therapists are really trained for (hint: it isn’t always growth or day-to-day challenges)

• The major differences between therapy, mental health therapy, relationship therapy, and coaching—and how to know which one you need

• Red flags and disconnects to listen for during your first session

• How to interview a psychologist or counselor so you actually get results (not just insight)

• When coaching is more effective than therapy for life, relationship, and career issues

• What to know about insurance and why it matters if you’re not getting “treatment”

Xoxo, 

Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

PS: On this show you’ll hear me talk about my coach training program for therapists, and the opportunity to work with one of them at a deeply discounted rate ($49!). Learn more and see if this is right for you.

Special thanks to this month’s sponsors:

Shopify: The all-in-one platform to build and grow your online business. Explore exclusive listener discounts at shopify.com/lhs
Working Genius founder Patrick Lencioni is on a mission to create self understanding and connection by helping people understand their genius and that of others. Listen to our conversation, then discover your strengths and get 20% off with code LHS at workinggenius.com