How to Make Your Counseling Sessions Work for You

Counseling is a process during which you- the client can learn to make changes to improve yourself and your life. Counseling can be reflective and educational. The goal of counseling is to allow you to get to a healthier stage in your life. Many clients go in to counseling with the misunderstanding that they will be all better after their first or second session. Healing is a process and counseling is not a pain pill you take. It is a journey you undertake to help yourself with the assistance of a trained professional.

1. In order for the counseling session to be effective to you, you will need to address your resistance to the counselor’s suggestions/feedback. The counselor is not someone who will make you feel better. You will have to do that yourself. The counselor will show you ways to improve yourself but ultimately you will be the one doing the work.

2. No matter what your issue is, try to be honest and open to the counselor’s feedback during your sessions. If you need more directives versus reflection, ask your counselor for homework. Some examples of homework are journaling, bilbiotherapy, or completion of work book assignments. Be receptive to the feedback you receive. If there is something you are not clear on, ask. The counselor can not read your mind.

3. Try not to blame the counselor or others for your lack of progress. Emotional healing is something you have to be seeking and willing to achieve.

Some counseling options are: individual therapy, family, marriage/couple’s counseling and group therapy.