Palm Beach Therapy Center – Boca Raton, FL
Sometimes committing to therapy can be a little intimidating, especially if you haven’t experienced it before. Many people picture laying down on a sofa pouring their heart out to a perfect stranger with glasses and a clip-board.
Sorry to break the news to you-but that is far from the truth. Maybe this image was appropriate back when Freud was around, but therapy has transformed in so many ways since then!
At the start of therapy, many of my clients ask: “Well, how long do you think I’ll have to come in?” I love this question because it highlights that your therapeutic process and journey is entirely up to YOU! That’s right-you are the expert in your life and so you will know exactly when you would like to begin, how often you would like to attend sessions, and when you feel you are ready to end.
As a therapist and a professional in this field, I can certainly help support you in your decision making process, but you are in the “driver’s seat.” However, there are few factors that can make a difference in your therapy experience.
In my practice, I have come to notice that there are three specific elements that result in therapeutic success.
1. The Therapeutic Rapport/Relationship
Many don’t realize the true value in the level comfort and genuine connection between a client and therapist. At the end of the day, we are all human. And the fact of the matter is, people need people. People need one another to feel heard, to feel validated, and to have a raw and open discussion regarding the things that are hard to talk about. Having a positive rapport with your therapist is an important part of this process-so make sure you feel comfortable.
2. The Therapist’s Knowledge & Competence
Of course, having a discussion in therapy must also uphold some sort of meaning or purpose in order for change to occur. The questions that are often asked in therapy are asked with intention and the client’s goals in mind. Being a “sweet” or “kind” person is an added benefit, but therapists are highly trained professionals who utilize their insight and intellect to help you reach your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask your therapist questions about their background and experience.
3. The Client’s Motivation & Commitment to Change
Anyone who attends therapy needs to be ready. Ready to not only attend sessions, but to also be present and willing to participate in transformative discussions. When you make a commitment to therapy, you must be ready to face some scary and honest truths, ready to take accountability for past actions or decisions, and ready to move forward into the “unknown” in an effort to of course, discover something new.
And here’s the most beautiful part that many people are so unaware of-though this is a life changing process, therapy itself is not permanent! Many of my clients are so surprised when they experience positive changes in such a short amount of time. Though I see many clients on a more consistent basis, I have had other cases where some started and successfully ended therapy in as little as 4 sessions.
Just as any other important skill or relationship-therapy requires effort and determination. You are in charge of your own life and the decisions you make. If you are willing to put in the work, then it is likely that you will also see the results you are looking for.
If you would like to learn more please do not hesitate to contact our office at (561) 485-4633.
