Choosing to begin therapy can seem like a scary decision for some, but walking into a therapist's office for the first time does not have to be difficult. Here are some things to think about and prepare for before beginning therapy:
Know what you are going in for
Therapist's are willing to help you work through whatever issues you wish to discuss, but if you have many issues that you would like to address, the sessions may seem scattered. Begin by prioritizing; know what is of most importance, and the sessions will be structured to address that first.
Remember that the therapist needs background information
While you may be ready to dive in head first, the therapist will need to know details about the problem, family history, etc. This means that the first few sessions will be focused on gathering information before you can begin working through the issue.
You need to put effort in to get results
Although it is the therapist's job to help you through difficult times, it is just as much the client's job to put effort in to their therapy in order to achieve the desired outcome. Treatment can be hindered by a clients unwillingness to open up and discuss what is going on for them. Conversely, if the client is open, honest and willing, treatment will go more smoothly and efficiently, which ultimately means the client will reach their desired outcome faster.
Not all therapist's are a good fit
A common complaint therapist's hear is that the client's last therapist was not a good fit, so how can they be sure therapy will be better this time? When this comes up I try to remind them that not all people can have a connection with one another, but just because one or two previous therapists were not quite right does not mean there isn't a good fit out there for them. And it is important for client's to know that a therapist will not be offended if you don't feel they are a good fit- they may even help you find a therapist who is better suited to address your needs.
This Topic of the Week was brought to you by Danielle Adinolfi, MFT
Know what you are going in for
Therapist's are willing to help you work through whatever issues you wish to discuss, but if you have many issues that you would like to address, the sessions may seem scattered. Begin by prioritizing; know what is of most importance, and the sessions will be structured to address that first.
Remember that the therapist needs background information
While you may be ready to dive in head first, the therapist will need to know details about the problem, family history, etc. This means that the first few sessions will be focused on gathering information before you can begin working through the issue.
You need to put effort in to get results
Although it is the therapist's job to help you through difficult times, it is just as much the client's job to put effort in to their therapy in order to achieve the desired outcome. Treatment can be hindered by a clients unwillingness to open up and discuss what is going on for them. Conversely, if the client is open, honest and willing, treatment will go more smoothly and efficiently, which ultimately means the client will reach their desired outcome faster.
Not all therapist's are a good fit
A common complaint therapist's hear is that the client's last therapist was not a good fit, so how can they be sure therapy will be better this time? When this comes up I try to remind them that not all people can have a connection with one another, but just because one or two previous therapists were not quite right does not mean there isn't a good fit out there for them. And it is important for client's to know that a therapist will not be offended if you don't feel they are a good fit- they may even help you find a therapist who is better suited to address your needs.
This Topic of the Week was brought to you by Danielle Adinolfi, MFT
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