After 40 years in practice, I have made some observations of some of the ingredients that result in success in therapy.
- What do you want to be different as a result of your work in therapy?
Be clear and specific about your goals and what you want to achieve.
2. Come to your appointments on time.
Therapy sessions are usually 45-50 minutes in length. Time passes very quickly so get the most of your session by coming on time, being prepared and focused.
3. Be consistent. Don’t miss scheduled appointments.
Most clients are usually seen once a week. Missing sessions can seriously interfere with the assessment process as well as the flow of treatment. Make the commitment.
4. Do your homework!
Reaching your goals, getting better and feeling better require effort, work and practice. Strengthening and reinforcing what you learn within the session is valuable but you increase your chances of success by the work you do between the sessions.
5. Be honest and open.
Success is strongly related to a good relationship based on trust, communication, raising any questions or concerns you may have and providing full and complete details of your experiences, efforts and results.
6. Keep a log or journal.
Recording your efforts and response to guided suggestions, readings ,and/or experiential exercises.is highly related to successful outcomes.
7. Silence your cell phone.
Your therapy hour should be the most important focus. Stay in the present moment. Avoid all distractions.
