Make Therapy Work for You: Tips for a Successful Journey

Have you tried mental health therapy and felt like it didn’t work for you? You are not alone. I urge you to try again. Here are some tips that can help make the therapeutic process actually work for you:

1. Find the right therapist

You might want to consider their experience and knowledge, as well as their credentials. Mostly, look for a therapist who is knowledgeable and skilled in the areas that you need. Keep in mind, you and that therapist may still not be a right fit for each other, and that’s okay. Don’t give up. Ask that therapist to refer you to someone who they think might have the skills and personality you are looking for. 

2. Be open and honest

Therapy is most effective when you are open and honest with your therapist about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Trusting your therapist and being willing to share your innermost thoughts can help them better understand your needs and provide more effective support.

3. Set clear goals

Work with your therapist to set clear and achievable goals for therapy. Having specific objectives in mind can help guide your sessions and track your progress over time.

4. Be consistent

Attend therapy sessions regularly and consistently to get the most benefit from treatment. Committing to therapy and showing up for sessions as scheduled can help build momentum and facilitate progress.

5. Practice self-reflection at home

Take time between therapy sessions to reflect on what you’ve discussed and learned. Journaling or engaging in self-reflection exercises can help deepen your understanding of yourself and your mental health challenges. 

6. Follow through on homework assignments

Your therapist may assign homework or suggest exercises to practice between sessions. Completing these assignments can help reinforce the work you’re doing in therapy and accelerate your progress.

7. Ask questions

Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification if you’re unsure about something in therapy. Understanding the therapeutic process and feeling informed about your treatment can enhance its effectiveness. 

8. Be patient and give it time

Therapy is a process that takes time to yield results. Be patient with yourself and the therapeutic journey, and trust that progress will come with continued effort and commitment. 

9. Practice self-care

Taking care of your physical and mental well-being outside of therapy can support your progress in treatment. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, and socializing. 

10. Communicate openly with your therapist

Remember, if something isn’t working for you in therapy or if you have concerns or feedback, don’t be afraid to share it with your therapist. Open communication can help tailor your treatment to better meet your needs. 

11. Celebrate progress

Acknowledge and celebrate the progress you make in therapy, no matter how small. Recognizing your growth and achievements can motivate you to continue working towards your mental health goals.

Making the most of mental health therapy involves a combination of factors such as openness, consistency, self-reflection, and patience. By actively engaging in the therapeutic process, setting clear goals, and practicing self-care, individuals can enhance the effectiveness of their therapy and work towards improved mental well-being. Remember that therapy is a journey, and progress may not always be linear. Celebrate small victories, stay committed to your goals, and trust in the process. With dedication and a willingness to invest in your mental health journey, therapy can be a transformative and empowering experience. Here’s to your continued growth and well-being on your therapeutic journey.

Happy Life!

About the Author

Missy Daniel, LPC, specializes in working with survivors of domestic abuse. She works with a team of highly trained therapists who understand how to help those struggling with difficult emotions find the relief they are seeking. Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting’s mission is to inspire hope for change to help individuals move forward and live fully. Click here to schedule an appointment today.

Other Services Offered at Be Inspired

Trauma therapy isn’t the only service provided at our Alexandria, Pineville, and Natchitoches, LA locations. We also offer online therapy, adult counseling, and anxiety treatment. In addition, we also offer couples counseling and teen counseling. Feel free to visit our consulting services, FAQ, or blog pages for more helpful info!