Self-Development Through Therapy

As we grow and as we experience life, there is a constant need for us to develop ourselves. This need comes from the realization that the world around us is constantly changing and for us to keep up, we must embark on the journey of self-development to keep up.

It’s not just the world changing around us that thrusts us into the development of the self but our growth and maturity which bring about new responsibilities that require a different and developed version. The word of God says, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.” – 1 Corinthians 13:11, NIV

As a way of aiding in the process of self-development, therapy can play a huge role. By definition, therapy is the process by which an individual meets with a therapist to identify and embark on a journey to resolve problematic beliefs, thinking patterns, or relational issues that might be hindering growth. A therapist’s ability to evaluate us and offer an objective look at who we are and what needs to change is important in any journey of self-development.

Self-development is an ongoing process that does not end until the day we are no longer on this earth. Granted, starting the journey to self-development can be a daunting proposition, but it can also be a fun adventure because we are challenging ourselves to be the best version of whom we were created to be.

How therapy aids self-development

People rarely come to therapy for self-development. Most people’s first encounter with therapy is out of a need to overcome emotional, psychological, and mental issues. This, however, is not looked at as self-development. However, if we are honest, the resolution of these problems gives individuals the ability, confidence, and knowledge to function and self-actualize.

By taking time to work through hard emotions like trauma, grief, and heartache we are essentially opening ourselves to the possibility of changed thinking, and changed behavior which in turn leads to personal growth and development.

The therapeutic relationship aids in giving the client an unbiased objective look at themselves. Left to ourselves, we often have an inaccurate evaluation of our weaknesses, strengths, abilities, knowledge, etc.

Through therapy, these aspects of our being are presented to us in an objective way that aids us in correctly identifying what needs to change and getting tools on how to change. Indeed, most therapy work aids in people healing from past and present hurts the healing of that hurt however in turn gives us an opportunity for growth without hindrance. Below are some ways in which therapy can be useful.

Personalized help

Self-development is often sold as a solo sport, something one must do on their own and achieve on their own. The way in which we can do it alone is through reading books, listening to motivational talks, or encouraging sermons. There is nothing wrong with all of this, and in fact, it can be beneficial. One thing though that all the material lacks is the personal touch, most material out there is meant to apply to many, the material is not personalized to an individual’s unique needs, circumstances, weaknesses, and abilities.

This is where therapy can be helpful. When one meets with a therapist they are individually assessed and hence will have tailor-made help. Each person’s journey is unique and therapy works within the bounds of each individual’s realities.

Provision of a plan

Having a therapist walk with you on your journey means your progress is tailor-made and hence there is a specific plan on how to reach milestones. This means that the process is not a harp hazard and is impossible to track or monitor.

Through therapy, assistance is offered for the recognition of the problem, followed by formulating specific solutions, which will give room for feedback, readjustments, and finally reports on improvement. It is beneficial to any of us when we are stuck to be provided with a plan and way forward. This in itself is encouraging. Not only are we encouraged but we are also kept accountable because we have someone to report back to.

Lifelong tools

Life can be messy and confusing. For this reason, most of us walk through life without knowing what is good for us and what is bad for us. Sometimes we are not even equipped with the necessary tools and mechanisms to succeed, heal, or function.

Through therapy, clients are provided with knowledge and tools to navigate life and its complexities. In a safe and supportive environment, clients are offered an opportunity to assess these tools for themselves. Once learned and mastered, one can always use all the knowledge and tools beyond the therapeutic season.

Therapy is holistic

Self-development is the conscious effort to improve oneself in various aspects of their life. As humans, we are not only emotional beings but we also function physically, spiritually, socially, and mentally. When one goes into therapy, the focus will not be limited to emotional and mental functioning but the whole being. Therapists understand that our being is interconnected and will focus on all areas to get the best results.

If one seeks a Christian counselor it means that they are also walking with someone who will encourage them in their walk with Christ, someone who will point them toward relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance. Therapists also work hand in hand with other experts to cater to a client’s physical and dietary needs to ensure that they develop holistically.

Validation of strength and abilities

Most of us have never been given space to shine and celebrate our achievements without feeling bad about it. A huge part of self-development is embracing our strengths and building from them, however, sometimes we are not even aware of what those strengths and abilities are. Therapy can be that light that illuminates all those qualities we ought to be proud of and use as stepping stones to greater horizons.

Better relational skills

One of the advantages of therapy is that it forces us to come face to face with who we are and what needs to change for us to be better citizens of the world. After gaining an understanding of how we function, therapy educates us on how others function and how we can best interact.

Emotional and relational intelligence are two of the most valuable skills anyone could have to thrive and succeed in any area of their lives. When one knows how to relate to oneself, others, and God, their life becomes much easier and makes room for self-development. They become more empathetic, more understanding, and much more accommodating of themselves and others.

Learning new skills and overcoming bad habits is the goal of self-development. With the above, we have shown how therapy can aid in this journey. Though it is called self-development, implying that the individual is the one that must do most of the work, humans are social beings and progress in life with the help of others, no man is an island.

If you or someone you know is considering going on a journey of self-development, please do not shy away from therapy as it will be such a great place to start. That being said, the myth that one only needs to see a therapist when something is wrong needs to be dispelled, one can engage the services of a therapist purely for the reason of self-development.

As mentioned earlier, therapy is a worthwhile investment if someone needs to start the journey of self-development. If this is you and you need help and guidance in terms of where to start, please get in touch with our offices. The right therapist for you will be recommended and you will have someone guide you through this process.