S2E6: My seven tips for starting psychotherapy.
Manage episode 358568003 series 3409136
I’ve been asked to talk about how to begin psychotherapy.
How to prepare for that first session.
So here are my seven tips to starting psychotherapy.
Well, first of all congratulations on wanting to start psychotherapy.
It’s a big step and yet many people never make it to talk with a therapist and so continue to live with what’s familiar however uncomfortable that might be.
It’s important to say that just as clients are individuals so are therapists and each will have their own way of starting therapy with you. I’m resisting the urge to give in to today’s selling culture by saying these are the
The 7 must haves or
The 7 steps or
The 7 rules
However, after 25 years of working as a psychotherapist here are my tips about how you can prepare for that first session.
You may have them in a different order or you may have others, but here’s a summary with some personal statements that may also be of help:
Want – I’m as clear as I can be.
Cost – I believe therapy is worth it.
Time – I’m willing to commit
Honesty – I’ll tell my truth
Safety – I’m going to be held through this process
Changes – I’m willing to behave/think in new and different ways
Resource – I’ll make the most of my time with the therapist
I wish you the best of health.
Martin Weaver
20 episodes