This is different for everyone. It may be that you feel an immediate sense of relief at having a place to say things that may have been held on to for some time, or you might feel intense feelings that hadn’t previously been around for you and a sense of confusion about what to do with these feelings. Because therapy is unique for each individual, the various responses to starting therapy is also unique but all normal and we can talk about them together.
The timeline for each individual’s therapy journal is vastly different as is the pace at which change occurs. We can discuss in detail what you hope to gain from therapy which will hopefully support you in holding on to a clear sense as to whether things are changing for you. There may be an initial sense of change followed by a feeling of things feeling somewhat worse, this is completely normal. As we begin to talk about your history / current issues, powerful feelings may arise BUT we can work on these together in a safe supportive space.
We will both participate in the dialogue; however, the sessions are yours to use as you wish, and I will be led by you. Before each session, I do encourage you to think about what you would like to explore to avoid a questions and answer session and for you to maximise the benefit of your sessions. I will hold on to what we discussed in our previous session (and ones before that) which can be used as a prompt, but the sessions are yours.
I will not tell you what to do or give you direct advice. We may explore options together or alternative ways of approaching issues but any conclusions with regards to decisions will be yours.
I will not give you homework, although through our dialogue during a session, we may identify specific areas that you could practice in between sessions. For example, increased boundaries in relationships, increased self-care, on going considerations around themes that have been identified within your sessions etc.
There are limits to the confidentiality agreement which include; immediate and serious risk of harm to yourself or others, acts of terrorism, money laundering, drug trafficking, child abuse. I will ALWAYS discuss anything that must be disclosed with you before doing so and where possible we will act together. I have to keep a log of attendance and brief notes of each session which are stored in keeping with GDPR regulations and not shared with anyone unless they are requested via a written court order. As an accredited practitioner I am required to maintain regular clinical supervision which is for my professional development and support, along with support / guidance with any ethical dilemmas that may arise. Identifiable information is not shared with my Supervisor.
I do work remotely via video call (Teams / Whatsapp) but I do not work via email / messaging services or telephone. All of the information that I have included applies to working online also. In addition we would need to agree that you have a confidential space in which the sessions can take place and where you will not be disturbed. When working online the transition between your session and the rest of your day can be more sudden than when working in person, and so it might be useful to think about how some space can be created to reflect on the session for a few minutes before you move on.