The Director

If you’re taking the time out of your busy lives to go to therapy, an important question is are you getting the most out of it?

I have found that clients are often unaware that they can be the “director” of their own therapy sessions. Learning when to yell “cut” when there is something in therapy that isn’t working for you is key!

Let’s look at how you might receive the maximum benefit of a therapy session:

• Take Notes! One important way to make the most of your therapy is to take notes during sessions. It might be difficult at times to remember what was discussed in your session. Writing these notes occasionally gives you a way to review thoughts from your session whenever we have the time to do so. You may also write down questions you have to ask later in the session. You can even return to your notepad and write what comes up in between sessions to review in the next session.
• Question Therapists! Asking questions can be a simple way to make sure that you understand and are clear on terms our therapists introduce. It is your responsibility, as the client, to ensure that you understand what your therapist is discussing. Remember, therapists cannot read minds. Your therapist will expect you to ask questions, so do not be shy, this is part of therapy.
• Set Your Course! Give your therapist any feedback you feel is necessary. If something is not feeling right to you, it is your responsibility to discuss your thoughts on the matter with your therapist. Communicating in a healthy and assertive manner gives your therapist the ability to make necessary adjustments to your care. Having healthy communication between yourself and your therapist aids in maintaining a strong therapeutic connection which research shows help clients achieve their goals.
• Do Your Prep Work! Our “final scene” of this series of tips asks the “director” to complete homework assignments given to you by your therapist. These assignments are often catered to your specific needs. By utilizing your therapy assignment, you may see the changes you were hoping for when you started therapy to take real life action.

So, put on your “director” hat, prepare yourself to take charge of your therapy, and yell “cut” when you feel you need to!