If you are new to therapy or counseling, you might be wondering what you will be discussing during your sessions. There is no set experience, it is an individual journey. But while therapy is a process, there are some things to keep in mind to improve your experience.
When are ready to start with counseling sessions, contact Van Blarcom Consulting. Kendall Van Blarcom is available for in person sessions, if location allows, and offers online personal consulting, so you can schedule a session from anywhere in the world.
Here are a few ways for you or your loved one to get the most out of counseling sessions.
Be Open In Therapy
We all want people to approve of us and our behaviors, but counseling is an opportunity to open your life. It is a chance to become the person you want to be. Do you wish you were more assertive? Or are you a rational thinker who would like to be in closer to your emotions? Working with a counselor is a great way to explore questions like these and to discover new ways of interacting with the world.
Don’t Worry About the Time
It’s important for everyone to be on time for a session, both the therapist and the person seeking help, but once you are in your session, focus on your thoughts and things you want to share. The therapist will bring the session to a close. You need to focus on your emotions, not the clock.
Also, remember that counseling is successful when you use the lessons you’ve learned in your own life, too. The actual time in session is only a part of the process. Some people find it helpful to take notes about how they are feeling during the time between sessions. You can bring these notes to your counselor’s attention in your next meeting.
Commit Yourself to Improving
If you are telling your counselor or therapist you want to change, you have to make a personal commitment to yourself in order for that change to happen. Sometimes, people are getting an unintended gain from their troubles, whether that is attention from a loved one or an excuse to avoid an unpleasant obligation. But in order for counseling to work, you need to confront your fears and be honest with yourself. Consider making yourself a written or verbal promise for the best results.
Ask Questions
Every field has phrases and words that ring familiar to the participating group but can be confusing to newcomers. So, if your counselor says something you don’t understand, ask them to define it. Therapy is about healing, learning, and growing. You can’t do these things without the necessary information.
Plus, its better to discuss any questions you have with your therapist when they arise. If you leave the session and talk to your friends or family, and get mixed responses, it could muddle your understanding even more. Ask right away and talk about the issue at hand.
Are you ready to discuss what is troubling you? Contact Van Blarcom Consulting today.
