JACKSON, Wyo. — Join the Teton County Health Department in celebrating Mental Health Awareness month this May! This month’s mental health topic is “seeking therapy.” Read more below and visit the bilingual web-based platform CredibleMind to learn about different types of therapeutic styles and how to choose a therapist. Any community member who 1) makes a profile and 2) takes a CredibleMind self-assessment will be eligible to enter a monthly raffle for local prizes.
What is therapy? How does it work?
Therapy, also called counseling, always involves a trained professional. Therapy may take place with an individual, a couple or a family. In therapy, a client will meet with a mental health professional to work through challenging emotional issues. Sessions are typically 45-60 minutes long. Sessions may be in person or virtual (also known as telehealth) depending on the therapist’s offerings. The therapist will listen intently, provide practical guidance and encourage the client to think in new ways about their problems, so they seem less overwhelming. A therapist will develop a supportive relationship with the client so that they feel they have help during difficult times.
Therapists are professionally trained in different styles of therapeutic practice to respond to their client’s needs. Some therapeutic styles include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Motivational Interviewing.
Below are some resources to learn about the different types of therapy and how to choose a therapist:
5 Reason You Don’t Need to Be Afraid of Therapy
How can you tell if you have a good connection to the therapist?
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
How Does “Play Therapy” Work for Children?
Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide therapy and other well-being needs. Find more self-treatment resources and a local mental health provider directory at www.teton.crediblemind.com.
If you are in crisis and need support now, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for yourself or if you are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
This programming has been made possible through generous funding from the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole’s Behavioral Health Initiatives Grant.
