Therapy is a wonderful, life-changing option for many. It can provide relief and guidance to those suffering from addiction, mental health disorders, grief, stress and relationship troubles. Therapy is like any good thing, though: You have to invest time and effort to reap the most rewarding experience. I advise you to employ these seven methods to ensure you receive the most ideal therapy experience.
Research Prospective Therapists
A therapy experience can be overwhelming; there are countless therapists with unique specialties and styles. Research will help you narrow down prospects. First, decide if you’d feel more comfortable with a male or female therapist. Then, consider their specialization. Location, accepted insurance and price are all key factors to consider as well. If possible, schedule consultation to make sure your therapist is a good fit for you before you begin official sessions.
Be Completely Honest
I know it’s tempting to conceal emotions, events or addictions that make you feel ashamed. There may also be deeply rooted pain that you have no desire to unearth. But try to think of it this way; a bird cannot fly unless it outstretches its wings. When you begin to unfold and express yourself to your therapist, healing will begin.
Try to Keep an Open Mind
Do you know how a clam transforms an irritation into a lovely pearl? Or how the lotus pushes through muddy waters to reach the sun? Change is a struggle, but I promise it’s so worth it. Your therapist may make unsettling observations and provoke you to view things from an unfamiliar angle during your therapy experience. They may also suggest new activities such as yoga, journaling, expressive arts and exercise. I urge you to give it your all; wonderful things happen beyond the comfort zone.
Stay Calm Before Your Sessions
This may strike you as counterintuitive, since therapy is all about finding your inner calm. However, I encourage you to try to arrive at your session as rested and relaxed. It helps to arrive around ten minutes early. Engage in some deep breathing and gather your thoughts. This way, the communication pathways will be open to healing. Please don’t worry if it’s not possible – we understand life happens and we wish to help no matter what.
Ask Questions
When you’re unsure about what your therapist is talking about, need further clarification on how to journal, or wonder how you’ll navigate an upcoming social event, ask your therapist. Your therapy experience is about you, so you shouldn’t have to be confused. Track your questions between sessions in your therapy notebook. I assure you that we’d prefer you to ask us any and all questions so that no confusion gets in the way of your progress.
Discuss Concerns
Are you worried about therapy’s cost, time commitment, or progress? Talk to your therapist. Hiding your concerns can sabotage your commitment to the process. The last thing we want is to cause more stress for you. Therapy is meant to evolve with you, so we’re more than willing to adapt the course we’re taking.
Make Needed Changes
A common misconception about therapy is that it a passive exchange of platitudes. In truth, the more effort you give to therapy, the more you’ll get out of it. I urge you to earnestly attempt the activities your therapist suggests and to be an active participant in your growth.
I hope that these seven suggestions will help you get the most out of your therapy sessions. You deserve to life a wholesome life and therapy is a great start.
Therapy Experience at Morningside Recovery
Morningside Recovery offers many addiction therapy services to help people get on the path to recovery. This may include experiential therapy, adventure therapy, or evidence based therapy. To learn more about our options, call us today at 855-631-2135.
