Breaking up with a partner is never easy. It can leave you feeling lost, confused, and heartbroken. Post-breakup therapy is a type of therapy that can help individuals heal and move on after a breakup. In this article, we will explore what post-breakup therapy is, how it works, and why it can be beneficial for those who have recently gone through a breakup.
Understanding Post-Breakup Therapy
Post-breakup therapy is a type of therapy that is designed to help individuals cope with the emotional aftermath of a breakup. It is a form of talk therapy that is typically conducted one-on-one with a licensed therapist. The goal of post-breakup therapy is to help individuals process their emotions and thoughts, develop healthy coping strategies, and move forward with their lives.
Types of Post-Breakup Therapy
There are several types of post-breakup therapy that individuals can choose from, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Mindfulness-based therapy: This type of therapy involves focusing on the present moment and developing a non-judgmental attitude toward one’s thoughts and feelings.
- Psychodynamic therapy: This type of therapy focuses on the unconscious processes that may be contributing to an individual’s emotional distress.
- Interpersonal therapy: This type of therapy focuses on improving communication and problem-solving skills in relationships.
Benefits of Post-Breakup Therapy
Post-breakup therapy can offer a variety of benefits for individuals who are struggling to cope with a breakup. These benefits may include:
- Emotional support: Therapy provides a safe space for individuals to express their emotions and receive support from a licensed professional.
- Coping strategies: Therapy can help individuals develop healthy coping strategies to manage their emotions and thoughts.
- Self-exploration: Therapy can provide individuals with an opportunity to explore their own needs, desires, and values.
- Improved relationships: Therapy can help individuals develop better communication and problem-solving skills, which can improve their relationships in the future.
What to Expect During Post-Breakup Therapy
During post-breakup therapy, individuals can expect to:
- Discuss their thoughts and feelings surrounding the breakup.
- Explore the reasons for the breakup and any underlying issues that may have contributed to it.
- Develop healthy coping strategies to manage their emotions and thoughts.
- Identify any negative thought patterns or behaviors that may be hindering their ability to move on.
- Set goals for the future and develop a plan for achieving them.
How to Find a Post-Breakup Therapist
Finding a post-breakup therapist can be a daunting task, but there are several resources available to help individuals find the right therapist for them. These resources may include:
- Referrals from friends or family members.
- Online directories such as Psychology Today or TherapyDen.
- Referrals from a primary care physician or mental health professional.
- Employee assistance programs (EAPs) offered by employers.
Does Therapy Help After a Breakup
While some people can manage the end of a relationship on their own, others require assistance in getting through this difficult time. Therapists provide essential support by offering an open space to explore emotions, guide clients through coping techniques, and give them a re-focused view of the future in line with their objectives.
After a breakup, you may feel angry towards your ex-partner or even life itself. While this is an understandable reaction, it can also obstruct the healing process.
CBT can help you restructure maladaptive thought patterns and redefine your future goals. Additionally, you can work on grief management techniques and learn relaxation techniques that may make you feel better overall.
Your therapist can also help you recognize the difference between healthy and unhealthy coping mechanisms. By altering harmful habits like drinking, drug use or binge eating, it may be easier to navigate a breakup more successfully.
Does Therapy Help After a Breakup If You Have an Existing Mental Health Issue?
Jessica Rizk, an LPC who owns a private practice in Northern Virginia, believes that divorce can exacerbate preexisting mental illness. This may cause feelings of guilt and shame, intrusive thoughts and excessive “what-if” thinking in your mind. She further elaborates.
Clients may experience difficulty focusing on daily tasks, such as taking care of their kids or working full-time, due to the emotional turmoil caused by a breakup. Furthermore, they may suffer from depression and anxiety which can severely disrupt their daily lives.
Is it Ok to See a Therapist After Breakup?
After Breakup It’s Ok to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes it is appropriate to seek professional help from a mental health counselor. At these times, having someone objective offer insight on what you’re going through can provide valuable tools and provide resources for managing emotions effectively.
Counseling a therapist can be especially beneficial when you’re going through the typical grieving stages after a breakup, such as shock, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, testing and acceptance. A therapist will assist in working through these feelings so that you feel better about yourself and decide whether or not to move on or find another relationship.
Christi Garner, LMFT and Psychotherapist Online suggests that therapy can help you understand why you feel emotionally drawn to your ex. This helps determine if there’s something special in them or if you simply have difficulty moving on.
Your Support System Is Essential
People often withdraw from friends and family when going through a challenging period, but your loved ones can be an incredible source of strength during these trying times. Talking to them about your worries and asking for their assistance can make you feel less alone during a breakup, according to Haley Neidich, LCSW.
Maintaining a supportive network after a breakup can be invaluable in managing stress and anxiety that come from the experience, so it’s essential to reach out to those close to you for support as soon as possible after the split.
