Going to therapy can be one of the hardest decisions to make, especially if you’ve never gone before. That’s why we interviewed a professional therapist to get a few of your questions answered.
Danielle Massi, LMFT is the Founder and Owner of The Wellness Collective and leads mental wellness conversations focusing on relationships, difficult blocks, and the quarter-life crisis. Danielle received her Master’s Degree in Couple and Family Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University with a concentration in Sex Therapy. She is also an adjunct professor at Penn State University’s Brandywine campus teaching courses in the Human Development and Family Studies / Psychology department.
I met Danielle at #IGotMeDay, an event thrown by the founders of Okko, Leigha Field and Phoebe Kunitomi in early 2019. At the event, she discussed what it takes to maintain a healthy relationship. She talked about what you should look for to know that someone is a match early on, including creating a list of non-negotiables when looking for a partner.
From her experience as a cancer survivor, she raises awareness of the importance of taking care of your mind, body, and spirit. As a holistic psychotherapist, Danielle uses a multidisciplinary approach and provides a safe and open environment for her clients, so that they can discover the best solutions for issues they may be facing.
I took this chance to ask her a few questions about mental health, therapy, and finding the right therapist for you.
How do you feel about the openness of mental health today?
We are living in such a beautiful time. Conversations about mental health, spirituality, inclusivity, wellness, it’s honestly surreal.
How can people start a healthy conversation about mental health with friends, in the workplace, etc.?
I think sharing your own experience is the best way to start the conversation. I created #whyilovetherapy for exactly that reason- to get people talking about their own experiences, which increases visibility and normalizes talking to someone.
What are some misconceptions about therapy?
Back in 2015, I wrote a piece for Huffington Post on this, and I still think the same misconceptions exist! The biggest ones I hear often are that people believe they should be able to manage their own mental health (but I equate it to seeing a doctor for strep throat- you have to go!) and that digging up the past won’t be helpful. The past is the key to a lot of issues that we face in our present, and that will come up again and again for us in our future.
What are common questions you get asked about therapy?
The most common question is if I’m burnt out listening to people’s stories all day, which I’m definitely not. My job is the most incredible job in the world! I have the privilege of holding space for amazing people while they explore the innermost parts of themselves- what could possibly be better than that?
What are your thoughts on therapy apps?
Truthfully? I’m a bit wary. While the accessibility is amazing, there is so much that happens in the interaction between a therapist and a client that de-personalizing it feels a bit empty. If there’s no other option, it’s better than nothing.
Whom would you say is the perfect candidate for therapy?
Anyone who wants to change some part of their current reality should see a therapist. Uncovering our unconscious patterns and stories can unlock the key to every decision you have ever (or will ever) make, and can totally change the way you live your life for the better!
What are some qualities that a potential client should consider in a therapist?
First and foremost is connection. Studies show that a client’s connection to their therapist weighs more heavily on the outcome of the therapy than the therapist’s knowledge base or theoretical background. Try using social media platforms to find a therapist who truly speaks to you- the one who makes you go, “oh my gosh, they totally get me!”
What are resources that people can use to find the perfect therapist for them?
Social media, Psychology Today, or a word of mouth referral from someone that you trust.
There are people who cannot afford therapy. What can they do?
A lot of practices have options for people who can’t afford a therapist’s full fee. Some places offer sliding scale, out of network reimbursement for you to provide your insurance, or intern therapists who work closely under the supervision of experienced licensed therapist’s. My practice, The Wellness Collective, offers a few of these options! Another creative twist is that many therapists now offer coaching programs that use therapeutic tools. It’s certainly not a replacement for therapy, but it’s a great way to start the process of self-exploration without the high price tag!
Is there anything else you would like to mention?
If you’re unsure of whether or not therapy is for you, reach out to me to chat! I’d be happy to help you figure out whether or not therapy is the right move for you.