Millennials in therapy + how to maximize counseling outcomes

The younger generations of today have received a bad rap. More specifically speaking of millennials. The overarching perception of millennials is that they are outspoken, uneducated, and always looking for a “quick fix” to problems. It is important to note that every generation has its strengths and weaknesses. Every generation has its own awakening, and the importance of therapy and mental health is the awakening for millenials. Without millennials, would the world know the importance of being your best self? Truthfully, you are not your best self if your mental health is not in check. 

When you think of the word “therapy”, who and what do you think of? Personally, I think of millennials and generation z as the average therapy goers. Why is this the case? Perhaps it's the vulnerability that comes along with social media- one of the upsides to social media. People are now more than ever inspired to be vulnerable and honest on social media, which can translate to off the screen as well. We must nourish ourselves to flourish with others. One way of nourishing ourselves is through therapy.Therapy is a wonderful and powerful tool to transform your mind and your life! However, this tool can be expensive. Like any other investment, we need to measure our return on investment. How can we maximize our counseling outcomes? 

Micheal Karson (Ph.D) suggests 6 things to look for in a therapist.

(https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/feeling-our-way/201905/6-things-look-in-therapist)

• The first of these six elements is that you and your therapist are cohesive. Therapy works best if you and your therapist work together, not just utilizing therapy as a one-sided relationship. Set clear goals for your therapy and daily journaling of all activities toward your goals and what hinders you. Sharing your daily journals with your therapist will create a cohesive force toward reaching your goals.

• The next element is pattern recognition. Pattern recognition is when a therapist can spot patterns of mistakes in your life and give you a different way of thinking and going about life. To emphasize,by sharing your daily journaling or mood tracing can be powerful for tracking your progress and measuring outcomes. 

• The third element is vitality and convention. This section talks about life balance between you and your therapist. It is important to make time for each other, while also that life does not start and end with therapy sessions. Therapy is used as a means to guide you through life in a healthier way than before. 

• The fourth element that Karson suggests when looking for a therapist is comedic sensibility; finding a middle ground between having a meaningful therapy session but also making it lighthearted.