Many people don’t think much about what they wear to therapy, but it can say a lot about their feelings and challenges. Psychologists often notice how clothing choices reflect a patient’s state of mind. For instance, a cozy hoodie might indicate someone is feeling withdrawn. In contrast, a polished blazer could hide feelings of insecurity, while a bold necklace might express a part of their identity.
Take Travis Paul Martin, a publicist from Chicago. He never paid attention to his therapy outfits until his therapist pointed out he wasn’t wearing his favorite Birkenstock clogs. This made him realize that even his shoes were a part of how he felt during sessions. Similarly, Holly Falcone, a nail artist in Los Angeles, chose more professional outfits when she began therapy for postpartum depression. She wanted to convey confidence and earn the respect she desired.
Clinical psychologist Wei Motulsky shares that clothing in therapy isn’t just about style; it’s a form of self-expression. Patients often dress in ways that reflect their culture, identity, or struggles. For example, a lawyer might wear traditional Kenyan attire as a nod to their heritage, while another person might wear a lock-style necklace to hint at a personal lifestyle choice.
Fashion in therapy can change over time. For instance, a law student named Lily noticed a shift from baggy clothes to fitted ones as she felt more confident in her body while battling an eating disorder. Similarly, actress Grace Dougherty found that her wardrobe evolved after a breakup. Initially, she lacked motivation to dress up but later embraced bolder styles when she started dating again, showing her growing self-confidence.
For many, what they wear to therapy goes beyond routine. Whether it serves as a shield, a statement, or a sign of healing, clothing choices can express feelings that words sometimes fail to convey.
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therapy, therapist observations, subconscious fashion, mental health, therapy outfits, psychology
