You may be someone that enjoys trying new things, or like many, the thought of trying something that you have never tried before may be scary... even terrifying. Either way, you likely have many ideas of what therapy could be, from stories that you have heard from friends or family- to clips that you have viewed on television.
What nobody can completely prepare you for, though, is that therapy is a completely unique experience for everyone. Therapy is bringing together two people- one professionally trained in techniques that inspire the therapist and the individuals that they serve, techniques that are scientifically proven to be effective for helping others; and the other person highly experienced in their life, preferences and goals. This partnership is unique and special because of the varying backgrounds and experiences that people bring to the session.
Therapy is an opportunity to work together to achieve relief, learn skills, share experiences and shift perspectives. Therapy is a safe place. It is an environment that is judgement-free, supportive, at times- relaxing, at times- invigorating, and one in which the client is the leader deciding the directions that they want to go.
An initial session typically involves exploration. Sharing information about what precipitated the decision to schedule that first appointment. It is also a time when the client can get a sense of whether they feel comfortable and compatible working with the clinician. Bring those questions that you have been wondering about therapy, about the clinician's experience and training! Typically within the first session or two, you will discuss what your goals are for treatment- what do you hope to accomplish so that we know when you are done? The clinician that you choose will also explain what specific treatment approaches they are trained in that may help you to achieve the goals that you have set.
Subsequent sessions follow the course that you and the clinician have set.
This typically involves a check- in period at the beginning of the session to catch up on relevant experiences, insights, or work that has taken place since the last session.
New information or techniques are shared next, such as specific skills from CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) or setting up an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) session, or processing (discussing and interpreting) a concern that came up.
Finally there is typically a wrap-up section: where a calming/soothing procedure can be implemented, discussions about techniques that can be practiced between sessions and scheduling of future sessions, if needed.
Sessions are typically 45- 50 minutes in length. Therapy can be as short as a few sessions, or can be as long as several years, depending on your specific needs and the path that you and your therapist choose to take to care for your needs. Often work in-between sessions is necessary to help you to achieve your goals. As many treatments require following treatment recommendations, exercises, lifestyle changes, re-cooperation times and support from loved ones, therapy requires many of these things as well. Open communication about what you would like and not like during therapy, what is working and not working is key.
Therapy is an exploration into work that you would like to accomplish, your strengths, your hopes, your goals. It is also a partnership with someone that you feel comfortable with, that you feel safe to take this journey with. It is unique to each partnership and requires open communication and a safe environment. If you are interested in learning more about what Tranquil JC has to offer, please connect with us through the "Contact" page above.
