Good Therapy vs. Bad Therapy: How to Tell the Difference

Anxiety Society

In this episode of the Anxiety Society podcast, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner are joined by Ryan Judd, a seasoned therapist, to dive into the world of therapy. They explore the distinctions between good and bad therapy, the importance of evidence-based treatment, and how to ensure you or a loved one are getting the right help. From understanding diagnoses to recognizing red flags in therapy, this episode is packed with insights to help listeners navigate their mental health journey effectively.

Key Points:

- [0:00] Welcome and Introduction

Dr. McIngvale and Cali kick off the episode by welcoming Ryan Judd, discussing the importance of understanding what good therapy looks like.

- [0:55] Ryan's Background and Passion for Therapy

Ryan shares his journey into therapy, fueled by personal experiences with anxiety and OCD, and his commitment to evidence-based care.

- [3:03] The Anxious Moments Segment

The hosts share their weekly "anxious moments," from Cali's edgy new look to Ryan's anxiety at a slide park with his nephews.

- [8:10] What is Therapy?

A deep dive into the true purpose of therapy, how it should help solve problems, and why it's not just about feeling good after each session.

- [12:10] Therapy as a Coaching Relationship

Ryan explains how effective therapy should be like a coaching relationship, with structure, goals, and accountability.

- [15:10] Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

The importance of receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan within the first few sessions, and why it's crucial for effective therapy.

- [30:43] Red Flags in Therapy

Identifying red flags such as therapists who claim to treat all disorders or use too many different approaches, and why these might indicate inadequate care.

- [41:36] What to Expect in Therapy Sessions

A discussion on the structure of therapy sessions, the importance of setting goals, and why therapy should be time-limited for specific issues.

Quotable Moments:

[11:43] "Great therapy doesn’t always feel good in the moment, but it's necessary for real change." - Ryan Judd

[29:24] "If you’re seeing a therapist for years and still struggling, it might be time to reassess your treatment." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

[12:10] "Your therapist should be a coach, pushing you to grow, not just a friend who listens." - Cali Werner

Links Mentioned:

SAMHSA.gov: https://www.samhsa.gov

This episode sheds light on the critical aspects of choosing the right therapy and therapist. If you've been in therapy without significant progress, it's time to reassess. Reach out to qualified professionals, ensure they're using evidence-based practices, and don't hesitate to ask about their training and experience. For more episodes and insights, subscribe to the Anxiety Society podcast, and follow us on social media for more tips.