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Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Therapy brings people in for many different reasons. Most of the time it is because something in your life is not right and having someone to talk to that is not a friend or family member can be very helpful. We have many emotions, some are easy to share in front of others, some are not as easy. When you step into the therapy room, you go in with expectations of some sort. Even if you did not expect to cry, it is quite normal to do so.Talking about your emotions in the counseling room can be helpful as part of your therapy. Share with your counselor what it feels like for you to cry in therapy, as you explore together you will learn more about the connection between thoughts and feelings. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Hello,Crying in therapy is extremely normal, especially if it is your first time attending a counseling session. Very often Clients will come to therapy either for the first time, or perhaps after many years of having attended therapy previously, and often find the weight on their shoulders being lifted when they finally have a chance to let go and allow themselves to experience the emotions that they have been holding back. As mentioned, it is perfectly normal to cry during the therapy session. However, one must realize that having a safe space to cry is not the end goal, but rather being able to work through the issues that are causing the distress. Please do not feel that your counselor will not understand why you are crying. We are well trained therapists who recognize the power of therapy and how vulnerable people can often be when youre talking to somebody who is nearly a total stranger. It takes a certain amount of bravery to be able to go to a therapist and discuss the issues that you might feel cannot be shared with anyone else.Therapy can be a very healing time, but it requires courage, determination, and being willing to be vulnerable enough to address the issues that are impairing a functioning in your life. Be willing to work with your counselor to address the emotional side of the problems and challenges you are facing in your life. You do not have to feel like you need to cry in every session, but there will be times when crying will be a natural occurrence in the course of counseling sessions. If the therapist has done things correctly, you are to feel fully supported and safe in the environment of working for your issues.If I can be of further assistance, and you are in the Tacoma, Washington area, please feel free to reach out to me. I would be honored to work with you. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | It is never out of the ordinary to get emotional during a session. Sometimes we will ask clients to talk about some pretty intense topics, and that can easily trigger the emotions wired with those topics.Even knowing that, it can be really tough to experience that level of vulnerability. If you are seeing a therapist currently, it could help to process how it feels to you to show raw emotion if that's something that concerns you.Either way, it is awesome that your body was able to let some stress out for you! |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | It is normal to cry anytime you want to. Sometimes the tears don't make sense to us and that's okay. It is important to recognize those tears as telling you something about how you are feeling that you may be missing. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Crying in therapy is a natural response, a relief to what you are going through. It is an expression of emotions, which is why you are going to therapy - to express yourself in a safe, nonjudgmental space.Rather than trying to stop crying, sit on the couch with it until it is done and you have finished with the clearing. The energy is not blocked, is moving - a good thing. It's good to cry. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Although not everyone cries in therapy. In my opinion crying is a emotion that some express in therapy. Crying is something that some express when its hard to discuss situations that may have never been discussed, When discussing traumatic experiences, and at times crying has even happened to some of my past clients when they have had a breakthrough in their therapy process. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | It is absolutely normal to cry in therapy. Therapy is a place to be honest about and explore your feelings without feeling judged. Honesty is the only way you will benefit from therapy and that means being willing to look at your true emotions rather than avoiding them. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Absolutely! Therapy is the best time to have the opportunity to open up and deal with the range of emotions that may be bothering you. Therapy is a safe space to take time out of your normal daily life and cope with the emotions that are hiding underneath. If, for some reason, you are not comfortable in therapy, you should address this concern with your therapist or find someone whom you feel more comfortable opening up with and express yourself comfortably. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Crying is clearing. It is a release of energy and toxins. Crying is a good thing and a great way to let go and move forward! |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Therapy is such a personal process and often brings many emotions to the forefront, so yes, it very normal to cry in therapy. Often you are talking about your deepest challenges and fears, so it is quite typical to expect some tears when making yourself so vulnerable. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | It's absolutely normal. Therapy provides a space where you can be free to express yourself and experience all of your emotions fully. Crying is a form of release, and many people feel like they do not have any other space where they can let out their emotions. Crying can be a healthy way to be present with your emotions. While not everyone will cry during a therapy session, you're not the first, and definitely not the last. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Dang right it's normal, and even necessary at times.Weeping provides chemical shifts which also shift the experience you're having. Not only are their physical detoxification benefits to crying, but there are also emotional releases that come with it.Weeping can be the first step to an unclogging of a blockage, so that your energy can flow more smoothly. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | This is one of those cases where there is "no wrong answer."Many people DO cry, while others do not. Some people speak quietly, others may yell, and some find it painfully difficult to say anything at all in a therapeutic setting.My office has tissues readily on hand, and any client who uses them is assured that they are free to express the emotions they feel in a safe space. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | For many people, crying is a stress-release valve. It is perfectly OK to cry in counseling! |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | I love to see tears! There's an old saying, "The eyes are the windows to the soul." External emotions are a pretty good indicator of what's going on inside the person, and if tears are present, that often means the person is processing (i.e., moving forward) through their emotions! I'm more concerned when I don't see tears from my clients because that can mean the client is "stuck." So, don't feel bad for crying! You are moving through your emotions to a place of healing! |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Cry? Of course you can cry!Therapy is a safe place where you can be who you are with no fear of being judged. Every counselor/therapist is dedicated to protect the confidentiality (with some exceptions) of all that happens in session. Crying helps to release tension and help secure free emotional space. It may provide you with the presence of mind that therapy demands. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Absolutely normal! Therapy should be a place where you can feel safe to explore and express all of your emotions. Some clients may cry easier than others and there is no "right way" to do therapy. I have many clients who cry each session. And I have many other clients who cry periodically. And I have others who haven't cried once. Each person is different however therapy should be a place where you feel safe expressing yourself. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Of course! There are some people who will never cry during sessions and some that always cry. In counseling you may be talking about very vulnerable topics and experiences and it may even be the first time you are talking to someone about your concerns, thoughts, or feelings. It is perfectly natural to cry if you are so moved. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, it's totally normal! Crying is a part of processing the tough stuff, no matter your age, gender or background and the therapeutic session is a safe space to do this. Sometimes crying can offer relief or provide room for deeper authenticity in session as you let both your strength and vulnerability shine in alignment. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Crying during a therapy session is not unusual. When we are in a safe environment, such as a therapists office, it allows us to disarm our defenses. By disarming our defenses we are able to feel and express our emotions. Oftentimes, these emotions result in tears. I personally feel that crying in a therapy session is the one of the most beautiful parts of the healing process. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, it is very normal. Some people cry frequently, but not fully. Theyre good at crying but never seem to heal from whats hurting them.Crying is supposed to be good for you. Tears contain toxins, after all. And feel-good chemicals are released in the body whenever we cry tears of sadness.Never judge your feelings while youre having them; theres always a reason somethings a big deal to you.Cry for your own pain, not just for others. Crying in movies and when listening to sad songs is a good way to let off some built-up emotion. But you may not be dealing directly with your own hurts when that happens. Remember its okay to cry for yourself.Let yourself cry over spilt milk. You dont have to wait till somebody dies. You can cry about anything that triggers you, no matter how seemingly trivial.Dont set a time limit on tears. Your heart will decide when enough is enough. If you connect with the true source of your pain, youll find its finite. But you dont get to dictate a time limit for your sorrow. Be patient.Pick up where you left off. If you have to keep a stiff upper lip, perhaps because youre at work, check in with yourself later and see how you feel. Reflect on the incident in private if you feel its unresolved. Dontstressout if you cant recapture the pain. Tears are like cats: You cant lead them on a leash.Speak only kind words to yourself. When you cry, watch for self-critical and invalidatingself-talklike this:Its not that big a dealIm too sensitiveBig boys/girls dont cryInstead, say, Im sorry and Im with you and I love you. Dont say these things in order to make yourself stop crying. Say them in order to be compassionate to yourself.Cry in public. If youve never cried in public before, you may be surprised to find that many people will be drawn to you. Your tears make you vulnerable, and therefore no threat to others. Kindness is a frequent response to public tears.If you remember just one thing from this post, let it beself-compassion. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, many people cry during therapy! Crying can offer a type of release as your body reacts to the input of your autonomic nervous system. Some people release endorphins when they cry, which can make you feel better than before. If you're concerned about how much you cry during therapy, it might be good to discuss with your therapist. They may be able to make some suggestions of how to honor your feelings in a way that works for you. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, it is normal to experience many different emotions in therapy because you are dealing with issues and situations that matter to you. Sometimes you may cry, sometimes you may feel joy, and sometimes you may feel relief. Sometimes you might even feel anger. Everything you feel in therapy can be used to help you learn more about yourself and help you grow. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, it is very normal to cry during a therapy appointment. When you meet with a counselor, you are opening yourself up and sharing very vulnerable sides of yourself. Through this deep introspection, emotions (sometimes unexpected) can come out and this is completely okay and very healthy. Research has shown that crying reduces pain by releasing oxytocin and endorphins and reduces stress through the release of stress reduction hormones. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Definitely. Therapy helps us work through the tough stuff. Its a safe place where we can let our guards down. When you are getting things out verbally, a physical and emotional response is completely natural. Crying is a healthy release. Many people cry during therapy - some perhaps once in a while, and others may every session. Wherever you are on that spectrum, it is absolutely normal and you are not at all alone. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, absolutely. In therapy you will be delving into topics and feelings that are often suppressed throughout daily life. As you explore many emotions may come up, anger, disappointment, grief, frustration, sadness, to name a few. These and many other emotions often lead to crying and your therapist will be there to hold space and support you through it. Crying is a very healthy release of energy so feeling comfortable enough with your therapist that it happens during session is a great thing! |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | It's absolutely normal to cry in therapy. I imagine that you are being vulnerable and open to exploring some deep seeded issues. Also, it may be a good sign that you feel safe and held with your therapist that you are able to freely express those strong emotions. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Change is about giving a new meaning to past experience, to allow for the emotions we stored in our body to be freed. Crying is normal and one way to process emotions to help let go and integrate our experiences. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yep. Counseling can be very emotional at times. I've recommended to clients, on occation, that they allow themselves the rest of the day off after doing trauma work. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Crying in therapy is definitely normal. A lot of people, if not most, cry in therapy. Why does it happen? During therapy you'll explore your thoughts and emotions. Some of them will be pleasant: joy, hope, excitement, etc., so you will smile and laugh. Others may be more unpleasant, such as grief, sadness or anger, so you may feel like shouting or crying. It's healthy to accept and feel all your emotions and to express them in appropriate ways. Crying is a good way of expressing sadness, disappointment and helplessness. If you try to cut off some of the "negative" feelings, you are likely to also cut off your positive ones and feel numb as a result. Crying in therapy speaks to your ability to relax and let go in the presence of another human being (essential for healthy relationships!) and it also speaks to your therapist's skills at making you feel safe and comfortable. Good for you! It's your therapy and you can cry if you want to! |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, it is very normal to cry in therapy. Expressing your feelings is very cathartic and allows you togain a deeper understanding into yourself and how the issue is affecting you. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | I would say that's the whole point of therapy! Cry your heart out. Therapy should be a place where you feel ok to be vulnerable when you are working through your stuff. It's when your mind and your heart finally meet and you make the connections you need to make. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | It is normal to feel an array of emotions in therapy. Most people use therapy as a way to process their life's struggles and often times this results in them crying during session. Crying is a way to release those negative emotions and to cope with what is happening in life. We have come to believe that crying is something bad at times and so have conditioned ourselves to avoid crying out in public places. In therapy though, where there are no such expectations and where you can be open and honest about how you are feeling it is normal to cry. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, definitely crying is normal during therapy. Anyone in the midst of new awareness of how they've been hurt, or feel despair or great sadness from burdensome life situations, naturally will feel tears come up.Therapists are familiar with people crying during a session and will know how to be present for you while you sort through your painful emotions. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Therapy is by nature a safe place to discuss difficult, or painful memories or experiences and thereby it is normal that feelings of all kinds, including sadness, loss, frustration, disappointment, etc may arise. This is part of processing and bringing closure to things that may have been pushed aside for a lifetime and can now be faced and dealt with. Change too is often not easy, and can lead to crying, whether from frustration and set back...or also from joy and accomplishment! |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | This is a great question! I often wonder about what normal really means. Counseling is a personal process where many emotions can be experienced by people. I I do not believe it is just you who cries in therapy. Therapy can bring out many emotions such as laughter, anger, frustration, relief, grief, sadness, and many more emotions. Talking to your counselor about your experience might provide insight and healing for you. If crying surprised you and you feel comfortable that might be something you could bring up with your counselor. |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | Yes, it is normal to cry during therapy, it is a time of catharsis, letting things out, shedding our skin, dropping our weights and just to let you know, even therapists sometimes feel like crying in sessions. Although people often cry or become upset, it is in no way a measure of "good therapy". C |
Is it normal for people to cry during therapy, or is it just me? | Is it normal to cry at therapy? | It is very routine to feel all of the different emotions in therapy. I have had clients cry in therapy out of happiness, sadness, love, joy, and from laughing so hard! Yes, crying is a normal part of therapy for many people. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Yes, Counseling provides an area for people to speak to an unbiased professional about their concerns to address their unique needs. While length of time varies, counseling is a process and can be done from as little as one session to multiple sessions. Counseling provide a safe, non-judgmental, empathetic atmosphere from a professional helper provide the service |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Hi! Great question. I believe counseling does help people! Of course, I am a therapist, so I would think that! :) Seriously - I think therapy and counseling allow us to understand ourselves, our motivations and the things that bring us happiness and discontent. Therapy can create opportunities to try new skills and enhance positive attributes that are already present in someone. I like to think of therapy as an unbiased "aerial view" of our lives. Someone outside can often help us notice things we might otherwise miss. Hope this helps! |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Helps to define the problem and gain a clearer understanding of where it originates. Many people seek counseling because of symptoms they are experiencing. ...Allows for a safe outlet to vent. Not everyone likes to share their problems with close friends or family members. ...Counselors can offer various problem solving solutions. A good therapist usually will not directly point their client in the direction they need to go. ...Gives one the tools needed to cope with current and future problems. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Counseling provides a safe environment for people to explore the beliefs about the challenges in life. The various types(modalities/techniques) of counseling serve as guides for specific individual's personal journeys. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Yes, counseling helps a lot of people, especially when there is a good rapport between the counselor and their client. Knowing your counselor is someone who is really on your side and wants to see you grow past your difficulties into a healthy, happy, successful life is more important than what kind of counseling method they use. If you are looking for a counselor, take your time and be sure you feel heard and respected as well as challenged to grow. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Counseling definitely helps people! I have seen so many positive changes from those willing to engage in the counseling process. Having a safe place to openly share concerns with an objective listener really is therapeutic and can make a huge difference in your life. Many times people don't feel heard or validated by people in their lives, counseling call help validate your feelings and help you become more self-aware. You can learn new skills to better manage your life as well. I find the people who get the most out of it are the ones most willing to make changes. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Hi there! Thank you for your question. It's a great question and one that many people want to know the answer to. The short answer is, YES! Counseling can be very helpful to people struggling with many different things. There has been a lot of research conducted to prove that counseling is an effective way to help people with mental health concerns, life stressors, and many other issues. In addition, there are many people who would tell you that counseling made a positive, profound impact on their lives. Indeed, some would tell you that counseling saved their lives. Now, not everyone would tell you that counseling helped. But when you think about it, there are many medical treatments for a variety of healthcare issues that also do not help everyone. So, is counseling guaranteed? No. But, it is something that is worth trying if someone is suffering or is just wanting some perspective or support. Also, there is many different types of counseling. Different counselors have different styles and have different training for various issues. This means that you are likely to find someone who has a good style and expertise in an area that you want to work on. If you don't know where to go, I suggest contacting your state's counseling association. They can help. I think the real question that most people have is, how? How does it help? That question is a bit more complicated, because there are many different models of counseling/therapy that work in different ways. What I can tell you is that, regardless of the model of counseling, the relationship between counselor and client is the most important factor. I don't mean that the relationship has to be ooowy goowy... but it does have to be one where there is trust and openness. A counselor will spend time to make sure that you are working together as a team toward a common goal. If you go to counseling and you don't feel this is the case, tell your counselor. An ethical counselor will welcome your feedback. I hope this is helpful, please ask more questions! I hope some colleagues add some other thoughts, too. Be well,Robin J. Landwehr, DBH, LPCC, NCC |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Counselling offers a number of ways to help one to improve their situation. For some, this process can take a very long, winding path of self-discovery, while, for others, they are seeking a purposeful, solution-based way to approach and manage a specific problem. It's important to remember that there are different styles of therapy, some of which will work great with some, but poorly with others, specifically to help those to decide how they wish to move forward. I often recommend speaking with a number of therapists before beginning treatment to find out more about how they practice, in order to make sure their style aligns with your goals.On a more specific note, there is myriad research out in the world that indicates both counselling and medication can have an affect on changing our moods and behaviours. However, medication is not an effective way of treating the problem, as it treats the symptoms of that problem (increased anxiety, lowered mood, etc.) and research has shown that the most effective route for better mental health care comes from a combination of counselling and medication. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | There are multiple ways that counseling helps people. The most basic is that it gives you someone to talk to about and through what you are facing. It is better than a friend because this is a space for your stuff and you get to focus on what you need and don't have to worry about the other side. This is also a place where you do not have to worry about how else the other person is involved in the situation. Beyond this basic level, a counselor will have expertise they can bring in terms of how people, including you, can effectively deal with this kind of situation. The counselor may also be aware of connections that you would not otherwise see. A good counselor will also recognize if and when you need other help or support in the situation. Why wouldn't you benefit from having someone walk with you in your journey to peace and wholeness. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | A counselor can do a few things that can be helpful:1) Give you a space where you can explore what's in your head without worrying about being judged or punished.2) Help you better understand yourself, your choices, your motivations.3) Give you tools and information you can use to help create change in your life.Ultimately, though, it's up to the client to take action, because action is what creates change. So, a counselor can't create change ... but they can facilitate and support it. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | What is the importance of counseling to believers today? With faith-based counseling, you can receive the appropriate guidance and help in line with the words of the most wonderful counselor of allGod. With Covington-McGee Christian Counseling, you can receive holistic healing for your mind, body, spirit, and emotions in your quest for optimal health, wellness, and happiness in life. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Counseling can be beneficial in many ways. For example, a counselor can help an individual identify the sources of their psychological distress and support them in using coping skills.In addition, counselors can collaborate with clients in developing a treatment plan that lays out goals and objectives to be realized during the process.The counselor's capacity to understand the underlying problems and also communicate the understanding to the client constitutes an important discussion to have that leads to helping the client alleviate symptoms.Most counselors use active listening and this intervention helps clients feel heard which in itself can be healing. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective therapy for everyday struggles, as well as depression, anxiety, substance use, eating disorders, and many others. And all of our expert therapists at Denver Mental Health Collective are trained in CBT. Very simply, CBT is designed around the belief that emotions are hard to change directly. So, we target the emotions by changing thoughts and behaviors that contribute to distressing emotions.Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Work?CBT is evidenced-based and its effectiveness is proven.In brief, an article published in the journalCognitive Therapy and Researchsays:The evidence-base of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is very strong. (1) CBT is as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications. (2)What Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Involve?Simply, your therapist will encourage you to think about your life in new ways. And CBT will help you recognize ineffective habits and teach you how to change them.And then CBT will help you examine the way your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors all contribute to the problems you experience. Finally, youll learn specific skills and techniques for coping with problems more effectively and changing your habits.What Are Cognitive BehavioralTherapySkills?Packed with exercises and skills, CBT will help you put an end to the negative thoughts. A Denver Mental Health Collective therapist will help you reconnect with life using the following skills:Turn Off Self-Defeating ThoughtsChange Negative Core BeliefsPractice Stress ReductionLearn New Problem Solving SkillsUse Assertive Communication SkillsPractice Coping Imagery and SkillsLearn to Face Fearful SituationsIs CBT Right For You?CBT is an excellent fit if any of these describe you:You struggle with anxiety or depressionIt feels difficult to control your behaviorLow self-esteem is undermining your relationshipsYoud love a break from destructive thoughtsYou wish to create a more balanced lifeYou feel generally stressed or angryAs difficult as these challenges are, you are not alone.In fact, you are capable of learning new thinking patterns. And reducing daily stress. And and putting a stop to destructive thoughts. As a result, youll gain a better understanding of your thoughts, and your behaviors can start to change. In the same way, a better understanding of your thoughts and beliefs will begin to reflect the reality around you. Together, we can help you gain a more positive self-image.Of course, you might not be quite ready to schedule. So, here are some links to some helpful information:https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioralhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3584580/http://cogbtherapy.com/how-effective-is-cbt-compared-to-other-treatments |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | No, not really;And it's impossible for it to, anyway;And, this is isn't some sort of "you did it all yourself" kind of blather;Because:1) In most outcomes, if a man or woman simply does nothing and waits, most of the time, they get better... (there are reasons to that);2) In most therapy sessions, approximately 92% (give or take, per study) of all outcomes--be they positive or negative--occur due to factors SOLELY WITHIN the man or woman seeking therapy to begin with;3) The word "THERAPY" does not imply cure, but implies treatment (suppression);4) Truly, a proper "therapist" will be able to spot the problem quickly, recommended proper protocols quickly, and coach to completion.5) Even if we PRESUME generosity, the "therapist" really doesn't matter much (maybe 8%); it really all is in you...Be well, man... |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | You are asking a room full of counselors, and so I am going to guess that we may be a bit biased :). My answer is this: sometimes. Many people benefit from counseling and when counseling works those benefits can show up through positive improvements in your moods, making more choices that align with your values, working through stuff, and a general improved sense of self. Sometimes, for a variety of reasons, a counselor, the approach they are using and the person do not match up and when that happens sometimes counseling does not help. It is very important to find the right counselor for you. Ideally this should be someone you feel a level of trust and connection with who is also using a style that you feel confident in. Research has shown that these aspects (what is called the 'therapeutic alliance') along with shared goals between the client and counselor give counseling the best chance at being effective |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Counseling is a collaborative process which involves the development of a confidential, unique, therapeutic, helping relationship. This relationship is unlike any other as the counselor will act as a facilitator in helping you better understand yourself, the world around you, your feelings, and your behaviors.As is the case with most things in life, there are both benefits and risks while participating in counseling. Counseling may improve your ability to relate with others, provide a clearer understanding of yourself, your values, and your goals, and it often helps relieve stress immediately.Along with these benefits, counseling will also involve discussing the unpleasant parts of your life, and you may experience uncomfortable feelings during these moments. But remember that using the awareness of ones pain can aid the healing process and result in better relationships with yourself and others. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Yes, counseling can help people.How this happens is bc the counselor can guide the person or couple into deeper areas of their thoughts and emotions than the person or partners would typically avoid or not even realize they are avoiding.Also, a counseling session offers emotional safety because the therapist will intervene with thoughtful questions if someone's strong emotions overwhelm them.This is different than in everyday circumstances. When someone feels overwhelmed by their own or someone else's feelings, there is no one who asks reflective questions.Last, people get better in therapy because often therapy is the first time the person has a chance to trust someone with their confidential information and know this information will always be protected. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Experts have defined counseling as a healing relationship that helps patients by providing a space to vent, process and receive unconditional support. Many of my clients have expressed that they are able to find their own answers during the session, because they have the right person listening to them. Some thought they were safe sharing their concerns with friends or relatives who are good listeners, but later they felt ashamed or guilty about what they shared. So why people should share private issues with a Counselor (a stranger)? Confidentiality is the key word. A good counseling relationship should provide a space where people are able to share their deepest thoughts and feelings, allowing themselves to be vulnerable and explore those emotions that are difficult to share without implications. Beyond the ability to provide a safe place, counselors are trained to identify symptoms and behavioral patterns, and can provide insight on how develop coping mechanisms to improve their life.I am a License Professional Counselor working on a private practice in Puerto Rico: Latitude Counseling, and also Im licensed in Texas, where I provide theletherapy services. If you would like to learn more about the services available, you may call 787-466-5478 or visit www.latitudecounseling.comCmo la consejera ayudaa las personas?Realmente la consejera hace algo para ayudar a otros?Expertos definen la consejera como una relacin sanadora que ayuda a los pacientes proveyndoles un espacio para ventilar, procesar y recibir apoyo incondicional. Algunos de mis clientes han expresado que son capaces de encontrar las respuestas a sus problemas durante la sesin de consejera, porque tiene a la persona indicada escuchndolos. Otros cuentan que se sentian seguros compartiendo sus preocupaciones con su familia o amigos, pero esas preocupaciones afectaron sus relaciones negativamente, o los dejaron con sentimientos de culpa.As que, Por qu deben las personas compartir asuntos privados con consejero, (un extrao)? Confidencialidad es la clave. Una buena relacin de consejera debe proveer un espacio donde las personas puedan compartir sus ms ntimos pensamientos y sentimientos, permitindoles ser vulnerables y explorar esas emociones que son difciles de compartir sin consecuencias. Mas all de proveer un espacio seguro, lo consejeros profesionales estamos entrenados para identificar sntomas, patrones de conducta, y proveer perspectiva en cmo desarrollar los mecanismos de defensa necesarios para mejorar la calidad de vida.Soy Consejera Profesional Licenciada en Puerto Rico, donde practico a travs de Latitdue Counseling, tambin estoy licenciada en Texas, donde proveo servicios de teleterapia. Para ms informacin llame al 787-466-5478 o visite www.latitudecounseling.com |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | I love this question! Some people shy away from counseling because they think since they already talk about how they feel to their relatives or friends they shouldn't need a counselor. However, if you are having a difficult time, counseling can be beneficial in helping you move forward and get your life back on track.Counseling is not like the kind of talking we do to people we know. For one, your counselor does not have a history with you and has no expectations of how you will act and what you will do. In that way, counselors come to a session without judgement and expectation. This gives you the platform to truly explore your thoughts and feelings. A counselor can also help you understand your motivation and help you integrate your past experiences and recommend coping skills that can help you if you are feeling overwhelmed by your emotions.Over time, as you work with a counselor you will get feedback and also be able to share new insights. The work you do is based on you and where you are at. Oftentimes, when we talk to friends they bring their own agenda to a conversation, and while they mean well they may offer solutions that work for them and not you. A counselor will help you uncover the solutions that work best for you and help you find the motivation to follow through with your plan.Best of luck to you! |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Hello. Yes, counseling can be beneficial to many people. One of the effective components to effective therapy, is when the client becomes willing to participate in the counseling. I don't mean just show up and listen to the counselor for 45-50 minutes, but also that the client themselves opens up and shares with the counselor the issues that brought them to counseling in the first place. This requires you to be vulnerable, capable of moving past your protective measures of showing the best of yourself, and allowing the counselor to see the sides of you that likely are not as favorable. Therapy works when you and the counselor engage openly, honestly, and with mutual trust that both of you will work for common goals - your improvement of self. It does take time, and there are no quick fixes (usually), so be prepared to invest in yourself and explore the dark places. You'll thank yourself later, knowing that you are more connected to yourself and might even feel more whole after the process. Be well. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Counseling allows us to have a sacred space, a space that is set apart from the outside world, it is a space of non-judgement and exploration. Being that the universe is not made for us and that the the world tends to be a fairly untamed place at times, this sacred space allows us to explore ourselves. It allows for greater reflection upon our attitudes, our behaviors and our feelings. Imagine if you will a small goldfish swimming around the usual fish tank, although I dont attest to know what a goldfish thinks, I would imagine he does not see the world outside of him, he only sees the small fishbowl, oblivious to the outside world, when one comes into the counseling room, one is trying to gain insight that was not previously there. Remember the observer affect, one cannot truly act objectively with the world, we are in a dynamic relationship with life, it reacts to us and we to it, the time in the counseling room allows us to gain an understanding that is beyond the normal limits, allowing us to see what was before hidden, often times in plain sight. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | Counseling can go a long way in improving your mental health.Counseling helps you to get new perspective on your life and problems.Talking about your problems with a counselor gives them substances and something to get a handle on. Talking about your problems gives you a chance look at your situation from a new angle to help solve your problems.The counselor is a neutral listener that can help give direction and answers to your needs.Counseling can help you solve your problems but also can set up a plan for the future. Counseling can help you to deal with things before they get out of hand.Give counseling a try. |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | A lot of things affect how helpful counseling is for each person, including at least these things, but often many others:The therapeutic alliance (this refers to the bond, connection, or trust between the client and the counselor)What the person is coming in to work onHow motivated the person is to work on what it is they would like to changeSome people also ask how counseling is different from friendship. There is a similarity in the sense that hopefully both counselors and friends will listen to what you are experiencing, but that is really the end of the similarities. Some differences are:Counselors are specifically trained to phrase questions or statements in ways that help you to gain more awareness of one could be contributing to what it is that you are trying to change, both within yourself, and possibly with people around youCounselors have experience in using lots of different types of techniques (for example, focusing on finding solutions, looking at how the present situation could relate to your past, using role-plays or examples in session to help you learn new skills or ways of looking at situations, and probably hundreds of other things)Counselors are taught to look at what you are experiencing and ask questions about other related ideas that you may not have connected to what you are experiencingThere is a treatment plan in place (usually after the first, second, or third session) so both you and the counselor have an idea of where you would like to go with counseling (what you are hoping to change or learn) and a general idea of a plan for getting to your goalsIn general, I would say the following:Yes, counseling can help people who want something to be different in their livesCounseling is most helpful when the connection between the counselor and the client is strong enough that some trust forms (in other words, not every counselor or technique is helpful for every person)A lot of counselors will talk to you on the phone for a few minutes prior to you coming in for your first appointment to answer any general questions that you may haveIf you are working with a counselor and you feel as though you are not "clicking" or connecting with one another, give it three or four sessions before you change. Trust is not happening in one hour for most of peopleIf you are working with a counselor and you would like to be getting more or something different out of it, tell the counselor about that because typically modalities can be changedIf you are asking this question because you would like help with a specific issue, call a local counselor and discuss it so that you could have a more specific answer about possible options for counseling |
Does counseling really do anything that can help people? | How does counseling help people? | |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Hello,There are many ways to approach a counselor and starting the process, however they all start with picking up the phone. It's most definitely an uncomfortable feeling, but once that first step is taken it is often met with a wave of relief.My recommendation is always to call and speak with a therapist over the phone before scheduling an appointment. Listening to how they converse, use their tone and inflection, may give you a brief insight to how they will respond to you and increase your comfort right away. You may also discover, rather quickly, that this therapist is not the right match for you.Regardless of how you go about it, I like to remind all people who call, email, text or walk-in, therapists are a bit like pizzas - if you don't like the toppings, send it back! There are hundreds of therapists offering all kinds of styles of therapy - take the time to pick one that suits you. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | A great place to start is at www.psychologytoday.com. You can search by location and identify therapists who have expertise in your area of concern. Once you find a few people that fit your criteria, read about them on Psychology today as well as check out their website if they have one. Next, either call or email them to set up a time to talk for a few minutes. When you speak with them, you want to know a few things: do they have a decent amount of experience in your area of concern? Are their fees, insurance coverage and scheduling availability a good fit for you? Most importantly, see if you feel comfortable when you speak to them on the phone! If this person is a good match in these areas, schedule an initial consultation so that you can see if you are also a good match in person. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Most counselors are very approachable and many offer a 15 minute chat by phone to allow you to talk about your issue, and to get a feel for the counselor. If you like what you hear by phone, the next step is to set up a face-to-face meeting. Studies show that the most important element in effective therapy is that you feel a connection with your counselor. Trust your instincts and if you don't feel comfortable, let him or her know that you don't think it's a good fit. Many counselors list on websites like Psychology Today and Good Therapy. Visit these websites to learn more about therapists in your area. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Hi! Great question! My suggestion would be to google therapists in your area. One great website is called Psychology Today, which is a National site. You can search for therapists in your zip code and search more specifically for the issue you are seeking support about. It's a great way to find out if they therapist has a speciality, accepts insurance and whether they offer a free phone consultation. I would then make a list of the ones that may be a good fit and then give them a call! :) Hope this helps. Remember you get to ask anything you need to, to determine if someone is a good fit. Don't be afraid to ask anything! :) Best of luck! |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Usually people call me by phone, they introduce themselves, we chat for a bit, then we schedule a time for their appointment |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | You can interview counselors you may be interested in working with and gauge how experienced they are in possibly supporting your needs. Ask questions (you can google questions to ask a new therapist), and have an idea of what would lead you to feel safe working with this person. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | The therapeutic relationship is such an important aspect of the process toward healing. Feeling comfortable enough to be vulnerable is a good starting place. Understanding your own goals for therapy, outcomes you hope to get from it, and the approach you need from your therapist. Each therapist is unique and have their individual styles and theoretical orientations they align with. Open and honest communication regarding what you are hoping to get out of therapy and asking questions from the start of therapist to better understand if their theoretical approach will be helpful to you is a good starting place. Knowing and trusting yourself that if it is not a good fit that it is okay to seek therapy from another provider. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | The first thing is to see if they have a consultation. Many therapists offer this to make sure both parties feel like its a good fit before they invest time/money. If they have a website look over there blog, and other content on there page. If you are coming to counseling for a particular interest then having some questions prepared about there expertise with (whatever you looking for). |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | The first step in beginning the counseling process is to do some homework. I recommend that clients make some quick notes about what they believe are the core issues negatively impacting their functioning, the qualities they are looking for in a therapist, and what are some goals that you have for therapy. Next, go to one of the many directory sites like CounselChat or PsychologyToday.com. These sites allow you to search for therapists in your area and to select a number of different criteria that can assist in narrowing your search. Once you have a list of therapists, start calling their offices and/or visiting their websites. Many of us offer brief consultation calls at no cost. This is a great way to share the issues you identified with the therapist and to ask them any questions you might have. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | BRAVO you just did my good fello or fella |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Counseling is voluntary. If one feels there is a need to talk, its at that time, they approach counselor. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | You can call, email or contact them through their website. Or if you know the location, walk in and ask for them to contact you and leave your contact information. Hopefully this helps! |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | There are a number of online directories that can help a person get started with counseling. You can use them to search therapists in your area, by areas of specialization, and insurance. Here is a list of some of the most popular ones:www.psychologytoday.comwww.TherapyDen.comwww.onlinecounseling.comYou can also do a google search for "therapist near me" or "counselor near me." Lastly, all major insurance companies have directories online of all the therapists they contract with. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Honestly, don't :(Talk with your close friends, first (y'know, the ones you actually can tell sh*t to, not the more surface level ones, god-bless-their-souls...Be with your family; should you have a fine relationship with them, tell them and utilize them; they gave you life and that bond (especially between a mother and son) is unbreakable.Go with your faith; as often as various faiths have been blasted and lambasted around the world, understand that they're ultimately trying to get you closer to God :) And, ain't that a big thing.Go with those around you FIRST that actually MIGHT GIVE A CR*P about you, FIRST, before going to a total stranger you've never met before, that is just as damaged, stupid, and imperfect as we all are. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Great question! You can find a counselor by doing an internet search or by asking your doctor for a referral. Once you have the name and contact information for a therapist you want to meet with, give them a call. Some therapists will provide a free 15-20 minute phone consultation. This is a good chance for you to get some questions asked. Be sure to ask about their fee, if you want to use your insurance ask them if they take your insurance. Next you will want to ask about availability to make sure they have open times that fit in your schedule. Once you make the appointment, in the first session you have with the therapist, the therapist will ask a lot of questions about what brought you into therapy and what you hope to accomplish in therapy. I usually use the last 10 minutes of that first session talking with clients about how I might be able to help them with their concern and I gather feedback from them. Here is a link to an article about how to speak with your therapist in those first couple of sessions.http://thriveworks.com/blog/tips-open-honest-counselor/ |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Great question. Too often people search for the help they need via a phone book or a basic internet search. When looking for a new person to add to your team, whether it be a Counselor, Plumber, or Mechanic, it is important to know as much as you reasonably can about the person. I generally take the following steps:1.) Know what is important to me in finding help.2.) Ask for referrals from my trusted friends, family, and colleagues.3.) Search for online reputation (Better Business Bureau, Yelp, etc). The absence of an online reputation is not necessarily a bar to consideration. However, a predominantly negative review may warrant further research.4.) Finally call the Counselor and ask a few questions. Let the Counselor know what you are looking for. Trust your gut. For example, if you feel rushed or do not receive thorough answer, move on to the next.Taking the time to defining and conveying your requirements about what you are looking for in counseling can save you a lot of work down the road. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | I'd recommend looking on psychologtoday.com, reading the bio's of potential therapists who you think you would relate best with, then contact them through e-mail or on the phone. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Hi,Reaching out on this site was a great first step! To start counseling, I would recommend looking up counselors and thinking about what sort of counselor would be a good fit. See if they have areas of focus that line up with your goals, and never be afraid to call and set up a consultation. Usually these are free of charge and can help you make your decision. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | I have found that if you go to my website and fill out the form, I can usually get back to you within 24 hours. In my most efficient instances, I've been able to set-up a consultation within a couple of days, which is just 15 minutes by phone, to chat a little about what you might want to work on, how I may or may not be a good fit, etc. Then from there, if you want to meet in person we can set up an initial session. I will usually be able to let you know what kinds of ongoing times for counseling that I have available over the phone. Scheduling is a big barrier to finding a therapist, especially in New York, when schedules seem pretty busy all around.I've heard a lot of statistics about how prospective clients in therapy will often wait for months before reaching out, which is why I think that email is great. Cold-calling can cause an unnecessary amount of anxiety (also, who will hear me on the phone?) whereas email is relatively easy to begin a conversation, from what I've found.I tend to recommend clients give a new therapist a couple of sessions to get a feel for fit. But, if it's horrible after one session, and you feel awful when you leave, that's another story. I might want to explore with you what felt so awful, but if you don't want to come back, that is well within your right.Also, keep in mind that we want to help. So, please don't feel like we are judging you for seeking out help! You are strong for doing so. Far too often I hear about it as a weakness, and that's just BS:) |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Hello. Usually the person interested in therapy reaches out to the therapist, by telephone or email. I like to respond with appreciation for their making contact and ask if they are available for a phone consultation in order to see how I may be able to help. Once we are on the phone, I like to get a brief sense of what's happening in their life and the way in which I respond and the way we communicate will give each of us a sense of whether our dynamic is appealing enough to take the next step. And the next step is making an appointment. Also in the initial conversation, you can feel free to ask what their therapeutic modality is or give a brief scenario and ask how the therapist might respond to that situation. I encourage you to be fearless in "interviewing" the therapist. This is one of the most sacred connections of trust you could be about to forge, so if you don't feel comfortable, move on to the next therapist on your list. If the connection feels good to you, then it's worth it to make the first appointment. You will immediately know if you don't feel comfortable speaking with this person. But if you DO feel comfortable, heard, validated even in that short conversation, I encourage you to make the appointment. Once you're in the first session, you can continue to assess through how your feeling and responding, just how comfortable you are or are not. Just keep listening to yourself every step of the way! |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Great question. The decision to pursue therapy can be a very difficult one and the fact that there seem to be so many profiles that you have to wade through can be particularly daunting. Here's what I suggest to make the process a bit easier:1) Narrow down your preferred geographical area. Are you in a rural, suburban, or urban environment? If it's either of the latter two, you'll probably have a mental health professional close by. Decide now if it's important to you that their office be within walking or short driving distance.2) Decide if you need it to be covered by your insurance. You'll have more options if you're willing to pay out of pocket and get reimbursed by your insurance, but more and more people are accepting insurance these days.3) Find someone whose profile has the key words that you're looking for. If you're struggling with traumatic flashbacks, make sure they have "trauma" or something along those lines in their profile.4) Make sure they have a friendly and professional picture. This is small, but this detail shows that they really care about how they present to the world.5) Come up with a list of about 3 people and rank them from most appealing to least. Set up an appointment with the person who seems like the best fit and give it a try for the first session. You'll know by the end of it if it's a good fit.It can be scary, but finding the perfect fit makes it so worth it. Good luck! |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | First, identify the areas that you need help with. What are the issues that are most troubling you? Are these situations creating an impact on your daily routine?Second, do some research as to the type of counselling service you are looking and that would best suit your needs. Are you looking for individual sesssions, couples/family sessions, etc. And research potential therapists in your area that focus their counselling approach on your therapeutic needs.Third, contact the therapist (most don't answer the phones, so leave a message or send an email). Don't be affraid to ask questions. You want to make sure that this professional is a good "match" for you and will work with you at working toward your therapeutic goals (the things you want to address/work on during the sessions).Fourth, have the expectation that, depending on the issues, you will need multiple sessions/appointments with the therapist to really address the issues and work toward your therapeutic goals.It takes strength and courage to reach out for help, but I know you can reach your goals. It takes time, patience, and practice do really address your needs.Good luck! |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | I always suggest that you find the right fit. You have every right to interview the therapist and ask as many questions as you need. It is our job as a therapist to explain our approach and philosophy. This gives you a good overview of the therapist. Just call and say that you would like to talk to the therapist. Say your interested in the services but unclear about how the process works. From there a seasoned therapist should be proficient in helping to guide you through the process with ease and comfort.www.lifecounselingorlando.com |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Starting the counseling process can be daunting but here are some ways that hopefully help make the process a little less overwhelming.First,I'd start with finding a therapist through a therapist directory and searching for a therapist specifically in your area and with the expertise you're looking for. There are many reputable therapist directories online that offer specific information and links to therapist websites to learn more about how they can help.Next,I'd pick two or three of interest to contact directly. Have a list of questions that are important to you that you can ask to determine whether a particular therapist is a good fit. Many therapists offer a free phone consultation to allow you both to determine whether it is a good fit.Then, after you schedule, the next step is to see what it's like being in session to determine if the fit is still a match. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | The easiest way to start the counseling process is to do a little research online. A quick search for the type of counseling you are looking for can be helpful. There are lots of Counselors out there to choose from, so many times you will have to take it a few steps further than that. Check out their website, social media, and any reviews (but remember, people are not always very nice). If you plan on using insurance to pay for at least part of the services, look for one that is in your network. You can find out if someone is in your network by looking for providers on your insurance's website. If your coverage isn't that great and you know you're going to be paying for it all anyway (because you're an all-star and verified your coverage already with the insurance company), then you can really pick any Counselor you want, but working with one that is at least out of network will give you the benefit of having it applied to your deductible. If you have any questions about that process or just want some help in getting your benefits from the insurance company once you've started counseling, Better is a good option. Once you've found a Counselor you think is a good fit for you, normally the best step to take here is to call and schedule your very first appointment. With many Counselors you can now send an email, but a phone call can normally tell you quite a bit about someone and their clinic. Once you're all scheduled, they will either get you to do some paperwork before you come in, or many times they just let you fill it out once you get there. From there, all you have to do is show up! |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Approaching a counselor can seem intimidating at first, but most mental health professionals want to help you feel safe and heard. You can often find counselors using search engines like CounselChat or Psychology Today. These websites allow you to get to know therapists before you take the next step. These days, counselors have websites where you can learn even more. These websites usually have clear instructions for contact. Typically, you can reach out via phone or email to request a consultation. During a consultation call, you can ask the therapist questions about their credentials and areas of expertise. If you feel like you connect, you can schedule a first session where you will tell them more about yourself and why you are seeking therapy. The thing to remember is that therapists want you to reach out to them, and they are happy to be approached for support. Good luck! |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | I think it is important that you are able to convey what you are looking for in a therapist even if that changes over time. You need to look at it like you are interviewing the counselor and that they will be able to provide you with the therapy you need. To many times we do not know and it ends up not being a good fit and then people are left with a bad experience and do not want to re-engage. Remembering you are basically hiring someone to help you so I would treat it as such. Do some research and be clear as to why you are coming to therapy and ask questions as how they will be able to help you. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | The first thing to do is to reflect on what you want to seek counseling. Search online and then set up a phone consultation. A person can find out a lot about a counselor and the services that they offer over the phone. After a consultation then set up an intake questions. The overall goal is to make sure that you are comfortable with the counselor and the services they can offer. |
How does a person start the counseling process? | How does someone approach a counselor? | Phone or email a counselor whose profile you've read and which feels right for you.Ask to get a feel as to the way the person would handle your problem and work with you.In my practice I offer a phone consult which generally continues for twenty minutes.I feel it is only fair that a prospective patient has a feel for the service they are about to purchase before they can be expected to pay money for a service which may not be to their liking at all. |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | I think this question can vary based on the individual therapist, their style and theoretical orientation. Clients are always welcome to ask questions before and during the process to understand their care. When I am first meeting with a client I take a more formalized approach in our first session completing what is called a psychosocial assessment. Typically I explore what brought the client to therapy in the first place and I take a more direct approach asking a variety of questions related to the specific struggles, frequency, history, duration, etc. This is NOT how my normal therapy sessions are and I try to explain that to my clients so they understand that while my first initial sessions is a lot of information gathering, and me typing out their responses, on going therapy is very client focused and catered to the needs of the client. |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | Weeks 1-2: Intros and NormsYour facilitator or counselor will establish rapport norms and guide you in building a sense of connection through getting to know each other exercises (not boring ice breakers, these are actually fun). You should of probably filled out intake forms and what you are asking of the counselor.We may ask you to share:A personal strength and weakness.Highs and lows of your week.A misconception people have about you. |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | Counselor tries to build rapport and gets the client talking. When the client talks, shares whatever they feel, counselor merely listens. A counselor's job is to bring out coping mechanism from the clients only and emphasise on the coping mechanisms, |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | Youre nervous, perhaps scared. You have never been to a therapy session before and have no idea what to expect! Whenever we do something for the first time, it helps reduce anxiety and nervousness if we know what to expect and can prepare. Here are some things that generally take place in a first session and typical questions the therapist will ask. These help your therapist get to know you and make an accurate initial assessment of your situation and what would be most helpful to you. You will be asked to complete paperwork. If you are using insurance be sure to bring that information with you. Often, you can complete paperwork online prior to your session which saves time. (Dont forget to bring it with you to your session!) 1. What issue(s) brings you to therapy?2. Your personal background history as it relates to current issues.3. What physical or other symptoms are you experiencing? How is the issue affecting other areas of your life? And here are a few other tips to help you get the most out of your first session. 1. Be open and honest about your feelings. Therapists are trained to listen and learn from what you share.2. Ask questions. Theres no such thing as a dumb question. Asking questions helps you understand more about the process, reduces your anxiety, and helps you become more comfortable. If you dont understand something, please ask!3. Be prepared. Think about how to describe whats wrong or why you are seeking therapy. It can help to make a list of reasons why you are seeking help. Practice describing how you feel about the issue.Most people feel more at ease after their first session and you will continue to build rapport with your therapist over time. It is a big step to begin therapy and I wish everyone healing and growth on your journey! |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | For me, I want a client to feel like I understand what brings them to seek help from me. So I might explore both their present circumstances, as well as their history, and try to start making some connections between the two, but so that the both of us can understand what is taking place. Not every therapist goes into history in the same way, either. The way the therapist practices will often inform the ways in which they collect and look at data.However, above all, my goal, especially in the beginning of therapy, is to work on developing a working rapport with any client. Most research states that the quality of the relationship, rather than modality of therapy, indicates success rates. One of the most essential components of rapport is that someone feels heard, attuned to, and understood. |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | Hi. This is an excellent question ! I think that the answer probably varies depending upon the particular therapist . In my work with people , once we have met and I have gotten an idea of the person'a concerns and the issues they want help with , I spend the next few sessions gathering as much history and as much information about the client's current concerns in order to formulate some ideas about what may be causing distress . I would then share my thoughts with the client to see if they feel I am understanding them and on the right track. We would then discuss the best plan to address the client's concerns . Usually I will suggest strategies that I think may be helpful and ask the client for feedback about whether or not they think my suggestions feel helpful . I always encourage clients to be really honest with me about this. I tell them that I would hate for them to agree to try things that they know they won't try just to avoid "hurting my feelings" or "offending me." I want to be helpful and while I have the expertise as far as typically helpful strategies, I really like to work collaboratively and have clients tell me what they do and don't like / agree with or not agree with when I share my thoughts about a treatment plan . We the work together to come up with a plan that will be helpful , but also realistic and then revise it and try new things if necessary as we go along. If things aren't improving , I am very happy and willing to try something new !I hope this is helpful for you ! |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | There are probably no two therapists alike because first and foremost we are human beings!And...our personalities may somewhat guide how we go about getting to know you, identifying what you would like to be different in your life and developing a plan to get where you would like to be. The very most important thing that will determine a successful outcome is the healthy therapeutic relationship between you and your therapist. If you don't feel safe, comfortable and ready to work together, then it is likely not a good fit. And that's OK...speak up and the therapist should assist you in finding someone you can readily work with. |
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates? | What happens in a counseling session? | Each counselor may have a different process, so I'm not the end all authority here. For myself, I review policies and confidentiality concerns with people first and answer any questions they have.Then I'll let them know I'll be writing a lot in this session and I have an assessment form that I like to get completed, but I want to have a conversation and I'll ask questions as we go. My first question is usually, "How do you feel I can best help you today?" Some people are very at ease and tell me many details. Others are a bit more reserved and I have to demonstrate more curiosity. Even people who have been very apprehensive are usually feeling very relaxed by the time the session is over. Usually, when we get close to end of session time, I'll summarize what I think are the biggest concerns from what I've heard and confirm whether or not the person wants to work on those things. I also try to give an exercise targetting my biggest concern for them to work on in between sessions. For instance, a relaxation method if they are very anxious. Counselors are just humans as well, so it does take a bit of time to really get to know another person. I always tell people that are apprehensive to give the counselor 3 or 4 sessions to determine if they really connect with them. I hope that helps,Allison |