Making The Most of Therapy
Hello there! I'm so glad you're here. If you’ve stumbled upon this blog, chances are you’re curious about therapy. Whether you're considering starting therapy or you've already taken the leap, I want to offer some tips on how to make the most out of your brave investment in your mental health. Grab a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of therapy together.
Embrace the Journey
First things first: therapy is a journey, not a sprint. It’s like gardening. You don’t plant a seed and expect a fully bloomed rose the next day. Therapy requires patience, care, and a bit of weeding out the old stuff to make room for the new growth. Remember, your narratives, relational patterns, and coping styles have likely been with you for a long time and you deserve patience and compassion as you unlearn the things that are no longer working for you.
Be Open and Honest
Imagine going to the doctor and only mentioning your stubbed toe when you’re actually there for a mysterious, persistent cough. Not very helpful, right? The same goes for therapy. The foundation of effective therapy is built on trust and honesty. Your therapist is here to help you, not to judge you. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly can feel vulnerable, but it's essential for making progress. And trust me, we’ve heard it all. Your honesty is the key to unlocking the full potential of your therapy sessions. If this is new to you, take it slow and practice verbalizing your thoughts and feelings by journaling and bringing it to session.
Do the Homework
Yes, therapy sometimes comes with homework. Before you roll your eyes, let me explain. This homework isn’t about algebra or dissecting frogs; it’s about applying what you’ve discussed in sessions to your everyday life. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, applying your insights, or simply being more aware of your feelings or reactions, these tasks can help you move towards your goals. Therapy isn't a passive experience; it requires your active participation. The more you engage, the more you'll benefit.
Embrace the Awkwardness
Let’s be real: therapy can be awkward. There will be moments of silence, uncomfortable truths, and maybe even a few tears. But that’s okay! Awkwardness is a sign that you’re stepping out of your comfort zone, and that’s where real growth happens. Plus, your therapist is trained to handle the awkwardness with grace and humor. Embrace it, laugh about it, and know that you’re doing hard, important work.
Communicate Your Needs
Therapy is a collaborative process, and it's important that you feel comfortable and understood. If something isn't working for you, let your therapist know. Whether it's the therapy style, session frequency, or any other concern, open communication will help tailor the process to better suit your needs. Good communication can turn a good therapeutic relationship into a great one.
Honor Your Progress
Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would offer a dear friend. Therapy is hard work, and every step forward is worth acknowledging. Did you manage to stay calm in a situation that would’ve triggered you before? Celebrate that. Did you finally understand a deep-rooted pattern in your behavior? That’s huge! These wins, big or small, are milestones on your journey.
The Bottom Line
Deciding to begin therapy is a courageous and empowering choice. It’s a space for reflection, healing, and growth. By embracing the journey, being open and honest, doing the homework, and communicating with your therapist, you’ll get the most out of your sessions. And remember, it’s okay to laugh along the way. Remember, your therapist is here to support you every step of the way, and together, you can work towards a healthier, happier you.
If you are curious about what therapy with me could look like, please contact me for a phone consult. I look forward to supporting you.