Does Therapy Work for Everyone?

More people than ever before are recognizing just how important mental health is—it’s more discussed and more accepted than just a decade ago. In fact, according to the latest national statistics from SAMHSA, over half (52%) of U.S. adults with any mental illness received treatment in the past year. That said, however, even with greater awareness around mental health, stepping into therapy or treatment can feel intimidating. Like any commitment, people want to know: Will therapy work for me? Can it address my unique challenges, conditions, and needs? Research shows that mental health therapy can be highly effective, so long as it’s personalized, continuous, and the right fit. Without those factors, therapy does not work perfectly for everyone.

We know that therapy offers incredible benefits for everyone who makes the commitment: it can improve your communication, relationships, confidence, and problem-solving skills, to name a few. However, sometimes, certain individuals require more care and support than traditional therapy offers. So, let’s explore your questions—Does therapy work? And, in what instances does therapy not work?

What is Therapy for Mental Health?

Psychotherapy, more commonly known as therapy, is a form of mental health treatment that helps people explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe and confidential setting. Therapy typically refers to “talk therapy,” in which a trained professional uses evidence-based techniques to guide others and help them to:

Improve their emotional well-being
Build coping skills to handle life’s challenges
Reduce stress and burnout
Overcome relationship issues
Gain important interpersonal skills, like communication
Increase self-love and confidence
Address history of trauma
Manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues

Does Therapy Work?

In the simplest sense, the answer is yes—therapy does work for many people. Time and time again, research shows that individuals who participate in therapy show a significant improvement in their mental health and quality of life. In fact, the American Psychiatric Association reports that 3 in 4 people—or 75% of individuals—who enter therapy experience benefits from it.

However, there’s an important caveat: There are many different types of therapy, each with its own focus and approach. As such, there is not one type of therapy that works for everyone. Every person has different experiences or unique challenges they’re facing. One person might respond well to a particular style of therapy, while another might not. Therapy is not (and cannot be) one-size-fits-all.

For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based method that helps people identify and change negative thought patterns, feelings, and behaviors. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a form of therapy that promotes mindfulness and emotional regulation. These therapies are typically delivered in a one-on-one setting between a therapist and client. Meanwhile, group therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy methods are delivered to multiple people in a larger environment. The most effective therapy or treatment is one that takes into consideration a person’s needs and customizes the approach to that individual.

So, if it’s not one type of therapy that works—What exactly makes therapy successful?

According to the American Psychological Association, a good relationship with your therapist (or a solid “therapeutic alliance”) is at the top of the list. This means there is trust and openness established between you and your therapist.

Additionally, factors like the below can play an important role in determining if therapy will work:

The type(s) of therapy used and whether they are well-matched to your condition or goals
The clinical experience and expertise of your therapist
Consistency and commitment to therapy
Your individual readiness and willingness to make changes in your life
Your preferences, values, culture, and characteristics—and whether those are aligned with your therapist

Why Doesn’t Therapy Work for Everyone?

Talk therapy can be highly effective, but it doesn’t work for everyone. (At least not right away.)

Why? Because mental health disorders are highly complex and individualized. What works for one person might not work for another. Additionally, those with more severe mental health challenges might need more intensive forms of treatment than the support that traditional, outpatient therapy offers.

Here are some common reasons why therapy might not work for a person:

There isn’t a strong client-therapist fit. A strong and trusting relationship is one of the most important predictors of therapeutic success. If a person does not connect with their therapist, progress cannot be made.
They are not engaging in or committed to therapy. In order for therapy to work, it requires consistent effort, openness, and commitment. Without these, even the best therapy methods will have limited impact.
The type of therapy doesn’t match their needs. Not every therapeutic approach is equally effective for every condition. For example, CBT can be an incredible method for overcoming anxiety or depression, but isn’t always effective alone for treating conditions like schizophrenia. Always, the types of therapy used must align with an individual’s whole self and health.
They are struggling with a severe mental health disorder or dual diagnosis. Individuals with multiple co-occurring disorders, very complex conditions (like schizophrenia), or life-threatening symptoms like suicidal ideation may need more intensive therapy approaches. Typically, long-term and residential treatment, as well as medication-assisted treatment combined with therapy, can position these individuals for success.
They lack a supportive healing environment. Traditional talk therapy is delivered in outpatient or telehealth settings, which might not be the best fit for every individual. Those who live in stressful environments, who are surrounded by substance use, who lack support from family, or who are facing financial barriers can limit the effectiveness of therapy.

Ultimately, the most effective therapy or treatment for mental health will be one that matches your unique needs. The types of therapy, the format of therapy, and your therapist must be aligned with your preferences, conditions, and goals for you to experience the full benefits of therapy.

And if therapy doesn’t work for you the first time? Try again! More often than not, finding the right approach requires trial, adjustment, and patience. There isn’t a single type of treatment that works for everyone, but by committing to the process, you can and will find something that works for you.

The Turnbridge Approach

Turnbridge is a pre-eminent mental health and substance use treatment provider for adolescents and young adults. Through our individualized and evidence-based approach, we ensure that each client who walks through our doors receives an integrated therapeutic plan that’s personalized to their needs, experiences, and background.

For young people who are struggling with complex conditions like dual diagnosis, who have experienced trauma and abuse, or who need structured, round-the-clock care, our treatment programs will set them up for success. In addition to evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT, we integrate holistic approaches to treatment (think, yoga and mindfulness practice) as well as offer comfortable living environments so that clients can focus fully on their healing journey.

If you’re considering therapy for yourself or your loved one, and are unsure where to begin, do not hesitate to give us a call. We can guide you in finding the right therapy or treatment program for your individual needs. Contact us at 877-581-1793 to learn more today.