Get the Answers You Need: Understanding Your Therapy Journey
What to Expect in a Session
Each session lasts approximately 50 minutes and is tailored to meet your unique needs. We typically start with a brief check-in to gauge how you’re feeling. From there, we’ll delve into a specific theme or issue, aiming to foster deeper understanding, emotional release, or new insights. We'll use the last 5 to 10 minutes to integrate our work and discuss how to apply your new insights to everyday life.
Why Focus on One Theme?
Focusing on a single theme during a session allows us to create lasting change. Tackling multiple topics might offer temporary relief but can prevent us from achieving deeper, more sustainable growth. By concentrating on one theme, you’ll learn to connect with your body, emotions, and experiences in a way that can positively impact various areas of your life.
How Does Healing Occur?
Healing in therapy can occur through various pathways, including:
Inner Child Work: Addressing unresolved issues from your past.
Dialogue Between Parts of Self: Engaging with different aspects of your identity.
Expanding Emotional Capacity: Learning to fully experience and process emotions throughout your body.
Understanding Core Issues: Gaining insight into the root causes of your difficulties.
Raw Emotional Expression: Allowing yourself to freely express and release emotions.
Titration and Pendulation: Gradually processing intense emotions by alternating with grounding techniques.
Relational Impact: Experiencing healing through an attuned therapeutic relationship.
Exploring Authentic Yearnings: Connecting with the deeper self behind surface emotions.
Will We Just Be Talking?
Not necessarily. While verbal communication is important, sessions often involve somatic exploration. I might ask you about physical sensations or how it feels to engage with certain emotions. We may also use role-playing or dialogues to explore different parts of your experience. You have the choice to engage with any interventions I suggest.
How Directive Are You?
I offer a balanced approach, combining active direction with attentive listening. Some clients seek a more directive approach to resolve issues, while others prefer a listening ear. I adjust my level of direction based on your needs and preferences, starting with a less directive stance as we get to know each other.
Can I Eat, Take Breaks, or Lie Down During Sessions?
Your comfort is important. While I encourage focus during sessions, you’re welcome to eat if needed to stay present. If you need a break, whether physical or emotional, feel free to take it. While lying down can sometimes be overwhelming, it can be supportive for certain situations. We aim to create a space that supports your growth and well-being, free from conventional social norms.
Do We Only Focus on Your Childhood?
While understanding childhood experiences can be important, it's not the only way we approach therapy. I recognize that many of our current emotional challenges may have roots in the past, but there are various ways to address these issues.
In some sessions, we might engage in emotional embodiment techniques, focusing on how you experience emotions in your body rather than discussing past events. At other times, we may explore conflicting parts of yourself that are related to your childhood, without directly delving into those memories. And yes, there are moments when discussing your childhood can be both beneficial and necessary.
Ultimately, my goal is to work in a way that aligns with your preferences and boundaries. We’ll collaborate to determine the best approach for you.