Why Should I Become A Therapist?
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Do You Have a Passion for Making a Difference
I speak with people in my practice who then consider becoming a therapist, and when I ask them why they want to pursue this, the number one answer is they want to make a difference to someone….To make a positive difference in the lives of others. However, sometimes fear is expressed with comments like “what if I fail?” When you seek your passion there will always be an element of fear, however if you let the fear rule, then your passion will lie dormant and you will never know. Speak to anyone who is in a career they love and they will more than likely tell you they were scared at the beginning. Remember that skills can be learnt however your passion is part of who you were born to be. If you don’t try you will always be left wondering “what if I could of succeeded?”
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A Sense of Meaning
Those who are interested in becoming a counsellor often express that they are looking for a sense of fulfilment in their career. They have a strong desire to be part of meaningful work that they don’t find in their current jobs. More and more people are changing careers and seeking out roles where they know they are going to be able to make a difference. Helping others through tough times often provides a sense of purpose and makes work and your career path so much more rewarding. Gone are the days of staying in a job you don’t enjoy, there are too many options in the modern world to pursue new studies e.g. a Diploma in counselling courses, new career paths and take the path you have a passion for.
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Previous Positive Experience with a Counsellor
Often people who have experienced the benefit of positive change in their own life through therapy are motivated to be able to offer the same help to others. This was one of the reasons I became a therapist and it increased my determination to succeed because I learnt that there is no shame in seeking therapy and in fact it can completely turn around a person’s life. As a result of my positive experience I have been able to go on and support many others through positive change. My experience enabled me to pursue my true passion and gave my career a sense on meaning.
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Opportunity to Work With New People Every Day
As a therapist you get to work with people from all walks of life on a daily basis. You will help many people overcome obstacles and emotional challenges, and whilst there are times when you will inevitably face challenges in this career the positives will far outweigh the negatives, and no two days are ever the same.
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Make a Positive Impact
It is an unfortunate fact that mental health issues are on the rise. Therapist do deal with mental health issues, they do have the opportunity to identify and refer early on, ensuring the client receives appropriate treatment. That being said mental health is about being socially, cognitively and emotionally healthy; the way we think; feel and develop relationships and this is where a therapist can play a huge role in facilitating change. Every client you help will make a difference. To help to provide initial support to people who are dealing with their own mental health. I have always held the preference that “If you make a difference to just one person’s life, then you have made a difference that they will never forget and this is so worthwhile, you will then create an effect that will in turn ultimately help many others”.