A Personal Perspective

As a therapist, I believe in creating a relaxed, supportive, and truly client-centred space where you can explore your inner world without judgment. I'm all about honest, helpful therapy without the clinical vibes, and I pride myself on being neuro-inclusive and LGBTQ+ affirming. So, when it comes to the question, "Is therapy political?", my answer is a resounding yes.

It might seem counterintuitive at first. Therapy is often seen as a deeply personal journey and a space for individual healing and growth. However, to truly support you, I must acknowledge the profound impact of the world around us on our mental well-being.

The Personal is Political: How Global and UK Events Shape Our Minds

Recent years have starkly highlighted how interconnected our personal struggles are with broader societal and political landscapes. From global conflicts and the ongoing cost of living crisis to discussions around social justice and equality, these events don't just happen "out there". Rather, they land directly in our therapy rooms.

• Political Anxiety and Uncertainty: The constant news cycle, political polarisation and a general sense of uncertainty can significantly heighten anxiety, stress and feelings of powerlessness. I frequently hear how these external pressures contribute to sleepless nights, overthinking and unease.
• Social Justice and Identity: Issues of race, gender, sexuality and disability are inherently political. When clients navigate experiences of discrimination, systemic inequalities or a lack of inclusivity, their mental health is directly affected. Social and political marginalisation can lead to profound psychological distress.
• Economic Pressures: The rising cost of living in the UK, for instance, is not merely an economic issue but a significant determinant of mental health. Financial stress can manifest as anxiety, depression and impact relationships.

Leading organisations in the UK, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), actively engage in policy work and advocate for improved mental health services, acknowledging that mental well-being is deeply intertwined with governmental decisions and societal structures. They campaign for better access to therapy, reduced waiting times, and reforms to mental health legislation, demonstrating that therapy's impact extends beyond the individual to the collective.

Beyond the Individual: Therapy as a Catalyst for Social Awareness
While therapy is not about manipulating clients towards a specific political agenda, it often involves exploring how external factors contribute to internal distress. Ignoring the political dimensions would therefore only provide incomplete support.

• Understanding Systemic Impact: Therapy can help you recognise how societal pressures or systemic issues might be contributing to your struggles, rather than solely attributing them to personal failings. This understanding can be incredibly empowering.
• Advocacy and Empowerment: By acknowledging the political context of mental health, therapy can foster a sense of agency. It can help you find your voice, understand your rights and navigate a complex world, leading to greater personal and collective well-being.
• Ethical Responsibility: Many therapists, myself included, believe it's an ethical imperative to understand the social and political determinants of mental health. This perspective ensures that therapy remains relevant and responsive to the diverse challenges clients face in contemporary society.

Why This Matters for Your Healing Journey

In a world where politics increasingly shapes our daily lives, therapy offers a vital space to process, understand and build resilience against the forces that impact our mental well-being. It's about supporting you, in your entirety, within the world you inhabit.

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not yourself amidst the noise?

 I offer online counselling and therapy that’s flexible, down-to-earth, and centred around you. Book a free intro chat today to see how I can help.

Further Reading:
 Navigating thorny topics in therapy - American Psychological Association

 Influencing decision makers Our policy and public affairs work - British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

 Psychotherapy and Politics International - The Black, African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN)