Make The Most Out Of Your Therapy Session With These 5 Tips
If you’re new to the world of counselling, then you might have some misconceptions about what to expect. For instance, do you think that a session will be just a room with a big couch and an old psychologist lurking about? If that’s your idea of therapy, don’t worry. The truth is much different than that. Counselling in Calgary is all about gathering information from people who are seeking help and formulating a strategy to deal with their issues and overcome whatever problems they might have. Actually, it’s just talking to a professional about whatever is bothering you – in person or through an online session.
Seeing a psychologist or mental health professional is an entirely private experience. You can either book in with a new counsellor and they will build up your story from scratch, or you might make way for a return visit to deal with something that has already been happening. Either way, talk therapy is personal and it’s here to help change your life for the better. So if you’re wanting to make the best out of your counselling sessions in Calgary, there are some tips to consider:
1. Keep your session goal-focused and be specific
Go into therapy with a goal in mind and something you want to focus on for that session. This can be anything from a relationship problem, something that’s going on at work, life stressors, and even just things you would like to improve about yourself. It’s sometimes hard to think of what to talk about so bring notes if it helps or makes more sense.
2. Communicate with your therapist and give feedback
There are many different types of therapy out there. Finding the right one is like finding the right shoe – there isn’t a “one size fits all” approach when it comes to therapy. But the most important thing is for you and your therapist to find some common ground that makes you both feel comfortable and ready to explore your issues together. Therapy is an intimate process, and it can take time for you and your therapist to build a therapeutic relationship that makes you feel safe, understood, and supported as you progress towards your goals.
3. Be an honest and willing participant
In the most basic sense of making the most out of your time with a counsellor, honesty is essential. Just as important is following the advice that your counsellor gives you. Your counsellor is there to help you through problems by providing advice and similar services. By not implementing their suggestions, you’re only hurting yourself and prolonging the amount of time it will take to reach your goals.
4. Be open-minded
Cognitive behavioural therapy, Rational emotive behaviour therapy, Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, Solution-focused therapy — there are plenty of ways to resolve issues you might be facing. What should you expect during the first session? It depends on the type of approach your therapist uses but in general, you’ll be asked about your concerns. Don’t be afraid to tell your therapist about anything that is on your mind. This will set the tone for the rest of your sessions.
5. Include your support people in your journey
Going to therapy is like going on a journey. So bring your friends! Okay, maybe not actually, but you should still tell them about all the cool things you are learning in therapy. Share and discuss these new findings with loved ones to help solidify these memories in your mind.
Counselling in Calgary isn’t just for people who have a major problem – it can be of great help even if you have a smaller issue in your life. Good counselling sessions will leave you feeling listened to, supported and able to face whatever problems life throws at you. In short, counselling is invaluable, and it’s something that will make you feel connected with yourself and with other people.
In the end, finding the right balance is key, and that applies to all aspects of your life. For more information on counselling and therapy in Calgary, contact Virtuous Circle Counselling today.
