What to Focus on in Therapy?
In this post, I’m exploring the type of questions you might have in your mind when starting to build rapport with the therapist: “What are we going to talk about?” or “What’s the direction we’ll take to tackle the problem? In other words, this blog will help you better discern whether you are navigating the therapeutic process in a controlled and smooth manner.
Therapy is all about creating a space where empathy and understanding can thrive. So, we need to strike a balance between staying on track with the treatment and acknowledging your need for connection and validation. It's kind of like finding a compassionate middle ground. By doing that, we can keep therapy productive, effective, and on task, while also making sure that you feel heard and supported. It's a delicate dance, but it's one that we're committed to doing in order to help you on your journey from your mental health condition.
Causes of Difficulty Maintaining Focus in Therapy
In therapy, it's really important for the therapist and the client to work together as a team. We want to make sure that we're always keeping the therapy sessions focused on the goals that were established, but without turning it into this rigid and boring process. The therapist’s office is not a school in session where I put my clients to sleep through endless lectures.
You see, if we get too caught up in just sticking to the main topic of therapy, it can end up feeling cold and robotic. It might even bring up some uncomfortable memories of past experiences where your feelings weren't fully recognized or respected. And that's definitely not what we want!
On the other hand, if the therapist explores every interesting topic that comes up, the therapy might stay on the surface and not address deeper issues. And let's be honest, it’s not good to waste time in therapy. You may leave feeling intrigued but not satisfied, like having a taste of something but not being fully nourished. The brain does not perform as well when different parts of it are not engaged in performing tasks.
However, as a therapist, I see the focus as a guide, not a strict map. It's like having a GPS to direct us, but sometimes we need to take detours to explore important issues that may arise. So, when the therapy starts drifting away from the focus, I pause and reflect. I ask myself, "Where are we in relation to the focus?" It's a way to keep us on track, but also allowing for flexibility in any given period of time.
Benefits of Maintaining a Focus in Therapy
This kind of self-reflection and flexibility can create a therapy experience that is not only engaging but also transformative for you as the client. We strike this delicate balance between focusing on the main goal and exploring relevant tangents; it’s about taking a break from a sustained area in therapy by keeping an adequate level of fluidity. And let me tell you, when we find that sweet spot, magic happens.
It is in this space that deep and meaningful personal growth can occur. It's where you can really dig deep, address those issues that need attention, and make long-lasting positive changes in your life. This is what therapy is all about – it's not just about talking, it's about making a difference.
During the beginning stages of therapy, one of the things I like to emphasize is the importance of finding a focus that we can really work on together. It's all about collaborating with you, the client, to figure out the key areas that need attention and exploration. This way, we can prioritize the immediate concerns and create a roadmap for our future sessions. It may seem a bit abstract and uncertain at first, but setting a focus serves as a guiding principle that gives our therapeutic journey direction and purpose. Without it, you will have a harder time finding motivation to engage in future therapy sessions.
Now, for those who are new to therapy, this structured approach can be super beneficial because it helps you feel in control and empowered. It encourages you to actively participate and engage in the healing process. Plus, having a clear focus in therapy can also help with any anxieties or worries you may have about being close to someone and relying on them. It creates a safer and more comfortable environment where you can explore your emotions and vulnerabilities.
Having that clarity and structure gives you a sense of security too. It acts like a guiding light that helps you navigate through your concerns. And the best part is that it ultimately leads to personal growth and healing. It's amazing how a clear focus can empower you to overcome obstacles and develop a stronger sense of self.
So, remember, finding that focus together is one of the most important activities in therapy. It sets the stage for a transformative experience where you can take control of your healing journey and become the best version of yourself.
