Many therapists advocate for connecting with one’s inner child as a vital step in emotional healing, but licensed psychotherapist Jessica Vickers takes it a step further by recommending Disneyland as a way to reconnect with joy.
Disneyland: A Place for Healing and Reconnecting with Joy
Vickers, a marriage and family therapist, explained why she believes the theme park offers something therapeutic: “I think there’s something there that just connects us with this younger sense of self,” she shared with SFGATE. “We don’t, especially adults, do not get to do that day-to-day in the real world.” For Vickers, Disneyland provides an opportunity for adults to access a youthful spirit and an escape from the adult pressures of life, which is essential in the healing process.
Vickers frequently shares her love for Disney on Instagram, often showcasing how her family enjoys the park together. She admitted in a playful tone that her advice might lead to a Disney trip, saying, “Don’t take my advice. You’ll just end up at Disneyland, aka your ‘happy place.’”
A Therapeutic Approach That Embraces Fun
While Vickers doesn’t claim Disneyland is a replacement for traditional therapy, she believes that the park’s sense of wonder can offer a mental boost. For Vickers and her family, Disneyland is a place that offers more than just a fun experience; it provides the chance to tap into nostalgia, joy, and an unburdened sense of self, all contributing to emotional well-being.
The psychotherapist is open about the fact that Disneyland may not appeal to everyone and that it’s certainly not a one-size-fits-all solution. She shared, “Disneyland, like any form of self-care, isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution,” acknowledging that the expense and crowds can be a deterrent for some. Still, she believes for those who find joy in the park, it can serve as an important tool in lifting spirits and improving mental health.
A Little Magic and Joy for Adults
For Vickers, it’s about finding what works for each person. Whether it’s a trip to Disneyland, a beloved hobby, or simply embracing one’s inner child, she encourages people to engage in what makes them happy. She noted that “Sometimes, that little boost of happiness can be exactly what we need to reset and approach life from a fresh perspective.”
Though Disneyland may not be a formal therapeutic approach, Vickers sees it as an effective means of reconnecting with positivity. For those who can afford it, the experience offers a much-needed break from the everyday routine and can help foster a healthier, happier outlook on life.
