Working with a therapist could potentially change your life. You’ll work with an unbiased, professional through detailed discussion to explore your inner framework. We all have aspects of our lives that could improve in order to stop holding us back. Talk therapy is known to improve overall quality of life, relationships, career, and health. If you are considering working with a therapist, keep reading this blog to find out what you can expect.
What Is Therapy?
Talk therapy is the use of psychological methods to help a person change behavior and overcome problems in desired ways. Therapists generally meet with their clients once per week, unless more sessions are recommended. Each person is different and has their own unique needs, which is discussed ahead of time with your clinician after they get to know you. Some clients meet their needs after a few months and only need to check in once per month. Others prefer to see their therapist twice per week if they are dealing with high levels of anxiety or depression.
How Do I Know When To Find A Therapist?
Many people put off therapy for an extended period of time because they feel they don’t have the time, money, or energy to find the right clinician to work with. If you find yourself constantly thinking about trying to find someone to work with, it may be time to make the decision and start looking.
People generally work with therapists when they are:
Dealing with a major life transition
Find their negative emotions affecting themselves or a loved one
Ready and wanting to make positive changes in their life
Dealing with anger or addition
Pursuing personal or professional goals
Grieving a loved one
Looking to improve their overall health
What happens during the first session?
Prior to working with any licensed therapist, there will be paperwork to sign. These are general consents that give the therapist permission to treat you. They will also go over their standard policies and procedures. If you are going through insurance, your therapist will need your insurance information and collect your co-pay upfront. You should always check with your insurance prior to seeking therapy to make sure services are covered and at what cost, if any, you are responsible for.
Once you get to your first appointment, you will use the first session to get to know the therapist and they will get to know you by asking questions. After you discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, you will set goals for therapy. This can include changes you want to see in your life or a reduction in certain symptoms. When you plan this out with your therapist, they can make general recommendations for you regarding how often they think you should come into the office to meet these goals. Remember - you’ll only get out of therapy what you put in.
If you attend your first session and you don’t connect with your therapist, you have options. You can certainly attribute the uncomfortableness to it being your first session and give it another try. If that doesn’t seem like a great idea, you can search for another therapist. Therapists understand that not every match is a great fit and could even offer you referrals or resources if you ask. Don’t let one session discourage you from continuing to get the help you are seeking. Sometimes it takes multiple times to find the right person to work with.
If you are ready to take the first step and begin your work with a therapist, click here.