What to expect from psychotherapy, therapy, and counseling in Missoula
You’ve never been to therapy before, and you’re nervous about knowing how it works and what to expect. After talking to a few counselors in Missoula that you think might be a good fit, you’ve decided to make an appointment for an initial session with one of them. You probably have a ton of questions- that is completely normal. It can be hard to open up to someone new. And if you are someone who shares easily, it can be hard to know how much or what to talk about during the first few sessions.
The First Step in Your Journey: What to Expect During Your Initial Session with a Counselor in Missoula
While different counselors have their individual style and approach, I hope I can help give you an idea of what to expect. At your intake session you may discuss your hopes and goals for therapy, review policies and procedures, and discuss the therapy process. The counselor is likely to give you information about their approach and answer any additional questions you have. While I generally have an intake agenda, I will give you the time and space to get comfortable and share what you are ready for during that first session. An intake is an opportunity to find out more about your history and how your situation is impacting your life. This allows you and the therapist to create goals that will guide your work together. I like to ask my clients, “If counseling works, how will your life look different?” There is no need to get everything “right” the first time. You can always go back and change your goals and try different things.
Completing an intake does not obligate you to continue. At the conclusion of the session, we will mutually decide if this feels like a good fit.
How Therapy Helps You Understand and Manage Anxiety: Insights from a Counselor in Missoula
Counseling can help people with anxiety in its many forms! In therapy, you will learn about the roles anxiety plays in our lives, and you will find out that you are not alone in what you are experiencing. Your counselor will be able to help you learn and practice skills to manage anxiety, which may include mindfulness, relaxation skills, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or learning how to be flexible in your thinking. The techniques that you and your counselor use can be personalized to your individual needs. As you learn more about these skills, your counselor will be there to increase your ability to experience uncomfortable feelings without them impacting your life the way they are now.
how do i know if it’s helping? Understanding the Timeline of Therapy
You’re probably starting to get the idea that therapy is different for everyone. Depending on your circumstances, such as the severity and cause of your anxiety, or your motivation to change, you might experience significant improvement with just a couple of months of counseling or you might need longer to address different areas of your life. Be patient with yourself; therapy usually consists of a series of small steps that result in greater well-being. You and your therapist will have the chance to discuss how things are going, to check in regarding your goals, and to change things if they aren’t working for you. You don’t have to be in therapy forever for you to experience relief, validation, and change.
The Long-Term Benefits of Therapy: How Working with a Counselor in Missoula Can Improve Your Life
The skills and mindset that you work on in therapy can help you respond in a healthier way to new situations you encounter even after you graduate from therapy. Increased presence, awareness of your patterns, and focus on what matters to you can lead to better habits, help you sleep, and increase your sense of purpose. Your relationships can benefit from your increased ability to manage your anxiety long-term. You can gain confidence in your ability to meet challenges with greater intention and less disruption to your life, while living a life of meaning and fulfillment.
Are you ready to start your journey to better mental health?
Contact me today to schedule your first session and learn how counseling with a down-to-earth, intentional counselor in Missoula can help you manage anxiety and live more fully. My specialty is addressing anxiety, and I often work with people who overthink things or are people-pleasers. Click the button below to schedule a free 15-minute consultation call to get a feel for whether we are a good fit to start working together towards the life you want.