A social media post by coach and therapist Raquel Hopkins is drawing attention online after she challenged what she describes as the limits of “modern therapy culture.”
The respected Capacity Expert argues that personal growth should focus more on developing emotional capacity rather than simply processing past trauma.
In a post shared on Instagram, Hopkins — who describes herself as a capacity expert, certified coach and therapist — contrasted what she called “old culture” and “modern culture,” writing: “Old culture = suppression. Modern culture = over-processing. My solution = development and capacity.”
In an accompanying video, Hopkins explained that current therapy trends often stress identity and emotional processing. She said this approach has gained popularity for several reasons.
“Processing work is very attractive right now,” she said in the video. “First, it feels compassionate. When your pain is validated, you feel seen. Second, it removes pressure. If the past is the explanation, then the present doesn’t feel like a failure. And third, it gives people a narrative.”
Hopkins argued that while acknowledging pain can be helpful, an excessive focus on past experiences can shape a person’s identity around trauma rather than growth.
“If we’re not careful, we start building our identity around what has happened to us,” she said. “It used to be ‘just get over it.’ Now it almost seems like ‘stay focused on the wound, the label, or the title.’”
Instead, she said her work aims to introduce a different approach centered on strengthening a person’s ability to cope with life’s challenges.
“What I’m trying to do is introduce into the conversation something different — let’s develop the capacity to face the realities of life,” Hopkins said. “Let’s build the emotional and mental capacity to lead your life forward.”
Hopkins also announced a partnership with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, a professor at Columbia University, to combine research and practical tools in a six-week live program focused on emotional and psychological development. According to Hopkins, enrollment for the program closes on March 12.
Her comments come amid growing global discussions around mental health, therapy culture, and how best to balance trauma awareness with personal development and resilience.
