While traditional therapeutic practices often focus on connecting with your inner child, licensed psychotherapist Jessica Vickers is proposing something a bit more unconventional: spending time at Disneyland. According to Vickers, who specializes in marriage and family therapy, a visit to the theme park can provide adults with the opportunity to reconnect with a youthful, joyful version of themselves—a key part of the healing process.
A Personal Take on Disney and Healing
In an exclusive interview with SFGATE, Vickers shared her reasoning behind her unique recommendation: “I think there’s something there that just connects us with this younger sense of self,” she explained. “We don’t, especially adults, do not get to do that day-to-day in the real world.” Vickers believes that a trip to Disneyland helps foster this connection by offering a return to innocence and fun, something adults often neglect in the midst of their busy, responsibility-filled lives.
Though Vickers is playful in her approach, she does not suggest Disneyland is a cure-all for mental health struggles. Rather, she views it as one of many ways to reconnect with joy, something that’s often overlooked in adulthood. In fact, she cheekily captioned one of her Instagram videos: “Don’t take my advice. You’ll just end up at Disneyland, aka your ‘happy place.’
Balancing Family, Therapy, and Disney Fun
Vickers often enjoys Disneyland with her family, frequently spending Sundays in Adventureland with her husband and two young children. While she actively shares her passion for Disney with her followers, she recognizes that Disneyland isn't everyone's therapeutic destination. “Disneyland, like any form of self-care, isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution,” Vickers said. For some, the expense, crowds, and logistical challenges can hinder the experience. However, for those who find joy in the magic of the park, Vickers sees it as a valuable tool for emotional well-being, helping to elevate happiness in a world that often focuses on the negative.
Disneyland has long been a place that sparks nostalgia, allowing guests to temporarily escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse themselves in whimsy. For Vickers, she believes that even though Disneyland may not be a traditional form of therapy, it can provide a refreshing reset and help foster a more positive outlook. “Sometimes, that little boost of happiness can be exactly what we need to reset and approach life from a fresh perspective,” she said.
Is Disney the Ultimate Therapy?
Vickers’ perspective encourages people to embrace the things that bring them joy—whether it’s visiting Disneyland, engaging in hobbies, or allowing themselves to embrace their inner child. For those who can afford the time and expense, Vickers sees Disneyland as a reminder that healing doesn't always follow a linear path. Sometimes, it’s about finding moments of fun, rediscovering nostalgia, and embracing a little bit of magic along the way.
