Starting Therapy: Insights & Guidance for Your First Steps

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In this enlightening episode of the Private GP podcast, host Alya Shakir delves into the intricacies of starting therapy for the first time. Drawing from her extensive experience as a psychotherapist, Alya provides valuable insights and practical advice for those contemplating therapy but are unsure of what to expect. 

This episode aims to demystify the process, illuminate the emotions involved, and guide listeners through the initial steps of finding the right therapist.

Key Discussion Points

• Understanding the Need for Therapy: Coping strategies that may indicate a necessity for therapy, including emotional suppression, people-pleasing, and unhealthy habits.
• Choosing the Right Therapist: This section explains how to find a qualified therapist through reputable bodies like UKCP and BACP, provides tips on what to expect, and explains how to connect with a suitable therapist.
• The Therapy Experience: Initial feelings and potential emotional responses; the importance of being ready for the journey of therapy.
• Timing is Key: Assessing the right time to start therapy amidst personal and professional commitments.
• Therapist Role & Client Expectations: The balance between empathy and gentle challenge in therapy, and the goal of building self-sufficient coping mechanisms.

The Private GP podcast is produced by Walk in Clinic in London, UK.