Therapist versus Friend? What is the difference?

1 minute Written by Sarah Rollins

Have you ever wondered why you should see a therapist when you have great friends and supportive family that you can trust?

There are many differences between a trained therapist and trusted friends/family.

It is encouraged that those who seek mental health or addiction counseling also create a strong social network. A therapist is not a replacement for other supports in your life.

Therapists are trained to listen with a nonjudgmental and unbiased lens with the intention of supporting you rather than giving advice.

When seeking counseling, these are a few things that therapists can assist you with that a friend or loved one might not be able to do: 

  • Provide honest, unbiased feedback
  • Challenge you in a nonjudgment and supportive way
  • Create a safe space to disclose challenging truths 
  • Allow you to feel seen, heard and validated.
  • Teach new strategies to cope.
  • Keep everything that you say confidential. 
  • Help you find your own answers. 
  • Provide new insight and information when needed.
  • Provide a space to process feelings without judgement.
  • Provide a space to talk aloud about things you may need clarity on.
  • Provide a space where you don’t feel pressured to do anything that goes against your values.

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Avatar Sarah Rollins

Written by Sarah Rollins

Sarah Rollins is a therapist in Michigan who specializes in individual therapy.