Getting The Most Out of Counseling

Define your goals with your provider

Think about what you would like to get out of counseling. Take time before each session to consider your expectations for that session. Jotting down thoughts before and between sessions is helpful.

Be an active participant

This is your counseling process, so be as active as you wish in deciding how to use the time. Be honest with your counselor and give him/her feedback about how you see the sessions progressing.

Recognize and express feelings

The recognition, acceptance, and expression of feelings pave the way for personal growth and change. Thoughts and feelings are equally important in working through difficulties. Your counselor will work with you to integrate your thoughts and feelings in a balanced way.

Be patient with yourself

Growth takes time, effort and patience. All of your coping skills, behavior patterns and self-perceptions have been learned and reinforced over a long period of time. Changing what has become such an integral part of yourself is a very difficult and at times a slow process. By having patience with yourself and accepting and understanding the natural resistance we all feel toward change, you set the foundation for developing and changing in more appropriate and satisfying directions.