What do you think about my therapist/therapy and how can I get the most out of it?

Question

I've been seeing my therapist twice a week for about 5 months. I have a lot of issues, I do some talking, then she takes over, gives a lot of great insight and examples and makes me feel better. I've been in an abusive relationship she's helped me steer away from that I still have issues about, and my current bf has been treating me really bad and I am trying to get help with that, to see why I go to these types of men. The day of my sessions I feel much better, but the days in between I feel really awful and feel helpless. Since it's not realistic to see her every day, what can I do in between therapy, do you have suggestions of how to organize the therapy so it's not like they come and go and I'm still feeling so lost (though greatly improved)? Sorry if I don't make too much sense!

Answer 1

I am also an LCSW and here is what I do:   when I call a help line or reach out for any support or help in a rough time-- I have a pen in hand and I write down the words, phrases or ideas that really strike a chord with me.  I repeat them to myself--that way the good thoughts really sink in and help me heal.

I think you need a little something every day, maybe a routine like reading a short affirmation or positive story, and a daily routine of taking care of your moods and feelings will be good for you.  I'm sure you are learning to take better care of yourself and create a happier life and I am glad for you.   Good Wishes

Answer 2

You're right, it's not realistic to see a therapist every day, but you can keep their advice and use that on the days you don't have therapy.  Put little notes around your house (around your mirrors, on your refrigerator, on your steering wheel, at work, etc) that have quotes or advice on them to keep you encouraged on the days when you may get down or feel lost.  Enlist friends or coworkers you can trust to help you.  Instead of going to a club or bar where you might meet guys/people that wouldn't be right for you, put yourself in situations that are healthy and therapeutic for you.  Volunteer, join a church group, do something you enjoy that makes you feel good about yourself and keeps you on the right track with your therapy goals.

Answer 3

To get the most out of any therapy, you need to be getting suggestions, homework, ideas, something that you are able to practice in between your sessions. If you feel you are not able to get that with your current therapist, you might consider changing. If you feel comfortable with the one you have right now, you might think about setting some ground rules, boundaries, with her about what you are wanting to gain from being there.

Remember, you are the one in control in the sessions, you are the one who is paying for the services. You need to be able to get what you need out of each sessions.

If you don't have any goals for therapy, you might want to think of some. With your goals you should try to set some time lines on when you want to be at a certain place. If you think about it, you have roughly been to 80 sessions since you started. Hopefully you have at least gained some insight at this point.

One more thought that I have is if you are on medication. I am not a huge fan, ok I put it off when I am seeing my clients, of medication. I do realize that there are times when medication will make therapy more productive. If you are not on something, you should talk to your therapist. This might help on the days in between your sessions.

I hope that this helps you. I know that you are on a long, bumpy road. But you can have a life worth living.

Best Wishes!!!