Therapy can be awkward/ Tips for getting the most out of your session
Therapy sessions can get pretty awkward at times. It could be the cringy small talk in the first session, the delicate dance around sensitive topics, or trying to interpret the psychologist's "uh huh,".
There can be awkward silences, sometimes all that can be found are one-word answers, maybe you’re just not vibing your psychologist that day. We've all found ourselves in these situations. Don’t worry; us psychologists feel the awkwardness in the room sometimes too.
Imagine the therapy room as a mini version of the outside world.
The way we communicate, banter and bond in there often mirrors our daily social escapades. It's like a playground for mastering the art of human connections. It’s a great way to experience uncomfortable human interactions in a safe space and learn real world skills. Armed with some evidence-based hacks and tricks, those cringe-worthy moments can morph into steppingstones for personal growth and long-lasting progress.
lets explore some practical tips to help you get the most out of your therapy sessions, from being prepared to fostering open communication:
Be Prepared and Set Goals
Before each session, take a moment to reflect on what you want to discuss or achieve. Setting specific goals helps focus the session and gives direction to your conversation. It’s ok to take the lead and direct if the session is not going where you need it to on that day.
Acknowledge the Awkwardness
It's okay to acknowledge and normalise feelings of awkwardness. Remember, therapy is a safe space to explore uncomfortable emotions and experiences.
Communicate Openly
Practice open communication with your psychologist. Share your thoughts, concerns, and feedback openly to foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
Reflect on Real-World Parallels:
Take note of how dynamics and situations in therapy may mirror real-life interactions. Discussing these parallels with your psychologist can provide valuable insights and help you apply therapeutic learnings to your daily life.
Discuss Connection Levels
Set aside time in your sessions to discuss how you're feeling about the connection with your psychologist on that day. Open communication about connection levels fosters a stronger therapeutic relationship and ensures your needs are being met.
Address Mistakes or Misunderstandings
Don't hesitate to address any mistakes or unintentional offense made by your psychologist. Remember, therapists are human too. Addressing and resolving such issues promotes transparency and strengthens the therapeutic alliance.
Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself during awkward moments. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that growth often comes from facing discomfort.
Set Realistic Expectations
Understand that therapy is a process, and change takes time. Set realistic expectations for yourself and the progress you hope to make.
Use Mindfulness Techniques
Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your sessions to stay present and grounded. Mindfulness can help reduce anxiety and enhance self-awareness.
Engage in Active Listening
Practice active listening during sessions. Pay attention to your psychologist's feedback and insights and be open to exploring new perspectives.
Remember, Psychologists Aren't Mind Readers
Don't hesitate to express your needs and preferences. Psychologists rely on open communication to tailor therapy to your individual goals and concerns.
Reflect and Apply Outside of Sessions
Take time to reflect on session insights and apply them outside of therapy. Journaling or practicing coping strategies can reinforce progress between sessions.
The take-home
In essence, those moments of awkwardness in therapy hold hidden treasures. They offer us opportunities to fine-tune our social skills, delve into our inner selves, and strengthen our resilience. It's within these seemingly uncomfortable moments that real growth can blossom. It's not just about ticking off a to-do list of tips; it's about embracing the journey and actively participating in it.
Therapy isn't a solo endeavour—it's a shared experience with both you and the psychologist finding value in the therapeutic relationship. When we engage openly, tackle challenges with compassion, and carry our insights into our daily lives, we pave the way for profound change. So, don't shy away from the discomfort. Instead, see it as a gentle nudge towards healing and a more enriching, authentic life. If all else fails, you can laugh about it in the next session.
