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When seeking advice and catharsis, many people will turn to their friends rather than considering therapy. While talking to friends can give emotional relief, therapists offer much more than an opportunity to chat. Here are a few reasons why it may be better to talk about your feelings with a therapist.

How Is Therapy Different Than Talking to a Friend?

1. Time

As much as they may want to provide emotional support, your friends have other priorities and responsibilities. They won’t always have time to meet and chat with you regularly, and expecting them to do so could put a strain on your relationship.

Therapists have dedicated blocks of time to focus purely on you. You won’t feel guilty spending the hour unpacking complex emotions, thoughts, and problems with them.

2. Experience

Your friends aren’t always a trustworthy source of advice; they make mistakes and can sometimes lead you astray. They only have their own lives to draw experiences from.

Although they’re not perfect, therapists hold advanced degrees and years of experience studying human behavior, mental health, and intervention methods. They’re trained and fully qualified to listen to clients, work you through your problems, and offer valuable insights. They’ll often give you more informed and healthier advice than your friends can.

3. Objectivity

therapyIf you’re only venting, it’s okay to look for someone to take your side. Just keep in mind that your friends have an emotional connection to you that can affect their judgment. Sometimes, your friends may even be involved in your issues, making it impossible to be completely objective.

However, receiving unbiased advice from an outside perspective can allow you to see your life and choices more clearly. Therapy offers guidance and treatment that isn’t clouded by personal bias.

4. Confidentiality

Sometimes, personal issues can stem from the most private aspects of yourself, and you may not want to risk that information spreading around. No matter how well-meaning your friends may be, they can slip up and accidentally reveal confidential secrets to others.

Speaking with a therapist can often feel safer because they’re detached from your daily life. They don’t know the friends and family you might discuss. You can share freely, knowing everything you say will remain between you and your therapist. They are legally and ethically committed to confidentiality. 

 

Keep your friends and therapist separate with Lincoln Psychiatric Group in Lancaster County, NE. For over 80 years, their team of professionals has provided compassionate mental health care to help you lead a fuller, happier life. Their services cover a wide range of topics, including mental health diagnosis and treatment, couples and family therapy, and medication management. Call (402) 476-7557 to start getting the help and support you need. To learn more about their services, visit them online.

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