As a person-centred counsellor, I wanted to share 5 things you can do before counselling sessions. It might be the first time you’ve seen a counsellor, or perhaps you’ve had therapy before. Counselling is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. I feel you are the expert in your experiences. Not me! However, there are a few things that you can do to prepare yourself for a counselling session, which can help you to get the most out of your time. And feel relaxed!
Here are five things you may want to consider doing before your next counselling session:
- Reflect on what you want to achieve from your counselling sessions. Take some time to think about what you would like to work towards with your therapist. This can give you a sense of direction and focus for your sessions.
- Write down any questions or concerns you have. It can be helpful to have a list of topics that you want to discuss with your therapist so that you don’t forget anything important.
- Consider how you are feeling in the present moment. Take a few minutes to check in with yourself and notice how you feel physically, emotionally and mentally. This can help you identify any areas you want to focus on in your session.
- Think about any recent events or experiences that have been particularly challenging. If there’s something specific that you want to talk about, it can be helpful to mention it early in the session so that your counsellor can support you in processing your thoughts and feelings.
- Be open to exploring new perspectives and ideas. Counselling can be an opportunity to challenge your existing beliefs and thought patterns, and to explore new ways of thinking and behaving. Try to approach your counselling sessions with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.
Remember that preparing for a counselling session is not about having all the answers or being perfectly prepared. It is simply about creating a space where you feel comfortable and ready to explore your thoughts and feelings with your therapist. Having 5 things you can do before counselling sessions could help you turn up feeling ready and can help you to get straight into things.
I felt ready, and prepared before counselling sessions but now I’m not sure?
By the same token – sometimes, you may find in-between sessions, you think of things, when you turn up; you don’t feel like talking about them at all! There is no right or wrong! You may not want to talk about anything in particular, and just sit – that’s okay too. You don’t have to talk about anything you aren’t comfortable with.
Whatever you feel on the day, will lead the session. It’s that simple.
I hope this helps you to feel a little more prepared for counselling, if you have any questions or would like to discuss working with me – you can get in touch here.