So You’re in Therapy: Now What?
It’s not an easy feat to reach out to a counselor, so way to go! You’ve taken a huge step towards personal growth and healing.
If it’s your first time starting therapy, it’s hard to know what to expect. Not to mention it can feel uncomfortable to finally talk about how you’ve been struggling. We want you to make the most of your therapeutic experience at Dallas Healing House. Here are some things I like to go over with my clients as we start the therapy process.
This is about your individual needs: The counseling room is a space where you can bring up whatever you need to bring up! If your goals change, great! You’re in the driver’s seat, meaning you’re also in control your pacing. If it ever feels as if therapy is moving too fast, bring it up with your counselor. We honor that pacing is different for everyone.
Consistency is key: Consistency with your counseling sessions means more efficiency and accountability. It also means you don’t have to go weeks or months without having the support as you grow and develop into new ways of being. Growth isn’t always easy, so checking in on a regular basis with your counselor is important.
Use your time and money wisely: Therapy is a time commitment and a financial commitment. So don’t waste your own time and money! Take the insight and awareness you gain, and do something with it! Journal after your therapy sessions. Use your tools and resources outside of the counseling room. Spend time reflecting. Which leads me to...
An hour a week is not enough: Therapy requires work outside of the counseling room. Meaning, caring for yourself outside of session, reaching out to your support system, setting boundaries around your time, and trying new ways of coping.
You decide how much you share with others about your therapeutic process: No matter what your partner, friends, or family want to know, what you disclose about therapy is YOUR choice.
Direct conversations are a must: We encourage conversations about frequency, taking a break, wrapping up therapy, or not being a good fit. Direct conversations about your needs and progress mean that you receive the best care possible. Your counselor understands if it’s not the right time for counseling, or if we aren’t the right fit for you. If not, we want to help you find someone who is! Our door is always open when you’re ready to engage in counseling again.
Therapy isn’t always easy: It’s brave to acknowledge your struggles! Addressing your feelings can feel vulnerable and challenging. We know it can be tempting to quit, avoid, and turn back towards old habits. We want to accompany you every step of the way, so let your counselor support you through your difficulties in therapy.
When you’re ready to start getting to work with a therapist, contact us.
Authored by Anna Zapata, LPC