5 Ways to Get the Most out of Counseling
Counseling can be an expensive endeavor both in terms of time and money, so why not try to maximize your experience with the time and money you have? In this article, we’ll discuss five tips and strategies to help you get the most out of counseling.
Reflect: Prior to your session, set aside 10-30 minutes to reflect on your week, your progress to your goals, and your challenges and wins since your last session. Some people like to reflect by journaling their thoughts while others like to walk and think - whatever works for you. Many people feel that they have a million important things to discuss, but when it’s time for a session, their mind goes blank. If you can relate, it may help to bring notes to jog your memory. Having a topic and goal in mind will boost the productivity of your session and strengthen your introspective skills overall.
Be Honest: Growth requires vulnerability, and good counseling can and should be somewhat uncomfortable. Most clients worry that their therapist will see them differently after disclosing something painful, but don’t let fear get in the way of your growth. Omitting, obfuscating, or lying to yourself or your counselor just avoids the issues that need the most light and attention. Try telling your counselor “I am worried/scared to tell you something.” They will walk you through the process and turn that vulnerability into an opportunity for acceptance and healing.
Do Your Homework: Most therapists will assign their clients homework to complete in between sessions. Homework might look like going for a quick walk everyday or trying to catch automatic negative thoughts, for example. Your therapist assigned this for a reason, so don’t skip it! You will grow so much faster if you are working on yourself outside of session, too. If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of homework or confused on its content, however, be sure to ask your counselor to adjust their plan.
Brainstorm Topics: Maybe you’ve reached a point in therapy where you have resolved the issue that brought you in the door in the first place. What now? Try brainstorming some topics to discuss with your therapist that would promote deeper healing or address a goal you have. Some ideas include: exploring past relationships and their impact on you, identifying your values and how you can incorporate them into your life, and naming your needs and how you can fulfill them.
Give Feedback: Don’t be afraid to tell your therapist if you want to try something new or dislike an aspect of their practice. Your therapist wants to work with you and hear from you! Counselors are professionals who know how not to take feedback personally, and counseling is for the client’s benefit, so don’t worry about hurting their feelings. At best, your experience will transform for the better, and at worst, your therapist can refer you to another provider who suits your needs better.
We hope these tips give you some ideas for how you can get the most out of your investment in your mental and emotional health. If you’re looking for an experienced therapist who will help you get the most out of every session, look no further than AWC, conveniently located in Shelby Twp, MI. Give us a call to get started today at (248) 413 - 5865.
