Psychotherapists and Counsellors Answer your Questions

I believe we should know from our first session with a therapist whether they are the right fit for us. I hope my clients will feel a sense of progress, even simply a new feeling of clarity, from the...

I believe we should know from our first session with a therapist whether they are the right fit for us. I hope my clients will feel a sense of progress, even simply a new feeling of clarity, from the first session.

When clients begin to soften towards themself and their sense of self compassion grows, I know we are on the right track. Progress in their external life can look a lot of different ways depending on...

When clients begin to soften towards themself and their sense of self compassion grows, I know we are on the right track. Progress in their external life can look a lot of different ways depending on what they want and are focussing on, but that internal relationship is key.

Simply taking the first step to seek help is progress. For some, their first session is the first time they feel truly listened to and this in itself is powerful. But it is that first “ah-ha”...

Simply taking the first step to seek help is progress. For some, their first session is the first time they feel truly listened to and this in itself is powerful. But it is that first “ah-ha” moment of personal insight that often sparks hope.

That will ultimately depend on what the client perceives as progress. Progress in terms of perceived wellbeing is not a linear process, so it can often feel like things are going forwards and...

That will ultimately depend on what the client perceives as progress. Progress in terms of perceived wellbeing is not a linear process, so it can often feel like things are going forwards and backwards. Under a process oriented perspective, simply being alive is an ever evolving process of becoming. If we become more comfortable with the process of life, we are progressing, but perception of progress is individual and subjective.

Sometimes progress shows up as early as the first conversation — simply feeling heard and learning others can struggle in similar ways - can make us feel less alone and hopeful. Deeper shifts take...

Sometimes progress shows up as early as the first conversation — simply feeling heard and learning others can struggle in similar ways - can make us feel less alone and hopeful. Deeper shifts take longer, but even small steps towards clarity or ease are meaningful. One of my favourite sayings is the Tanzanian proverb: “Little by little, a little becomes a lot.”

This is a hard one to answer as it will vary from client to client. From personal experience I think that when a client feels heard and validated they will be able to open up to the possibility that...

This is a hard one to answer as it will vary from client to client. From personal experience I think that when a client feels heard and validated they will be able to open up to the possibility that things can be different for them.

Many clients start to make progress even before they come to their first session! Just the act of making a booking shows courage and determination which can be a powerful force and motivation for...

Many clients start to make progress even before they come to their first session! Just the act of making a booking shows courage and determination which can be a powerful force and motivation for change. On the other hand, some changes are very gradual and may come about months or even years after a session of therapy has completed. I like to check in with my clients to make sure that they are finding value in each session. I am led by client preferences and feedback. Finding what works for each individual can sometimes take a bit of trial and error, but we will get there!