As therapists, we hear from people in all walks of life. Every client is different and comes to therapy with varied experiences, but one thing remains true; most people hold shame for things they don’t need to. When we feel shame, our brains will often make us think...
A Guide to Self-Advocacy in Therapy
- Do you have experience providing therapy to people with similar issues as mine?
- What are the different therapy approaches you practice, and which do you think will work best in our work together?
- How do you collaborate with your clients throughout the therapy process?
- How do you collaborate with other treatment team members (medication providers, case managers, etc.) when appropriate?
- Which types of coping skills do you normally help your clients learn and practice?
- How do you measure progress?
- What can I do if I feel the treatment isn’t working for me?
- How will I know when to stop or pause therapy if I am doing well?
- What is your training (what certifications or degrees do you hold)?
- Based on what you know about me so far, do you believe we’re a good fit? Why or why not?
- Do I feel respected by my therapist?
- Do I resonate with my therapist’s approach to treatment?
- Does my therapist listen attentively to me?
- Do I feel validated by my therapist?
- Is my therapist transparent with me about their treatment approach, and do I understand it?
- Does my therapist check in with me about progress and my experiences in treatment?
- Is my therapist an ally to me?
- Is my therapist open to my feedback about what works and what doesn’t?
- Is my therapist a safe person for all pieces of my identity?
- How am I feeling about working with my therapist so far?
Things You Might Feel Shame For, That Are Actually Very Common!
Life Hacks For When Everything Feels Hard
Mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and ADHD can make for difficult days. Ideally, with the right combination of therapy, coping skills, or medication, there won’t be so many hard days. But sometimes we hit a rough patch or experience a stressor or...
Pride Month: How to Support Someone Coming Out
June is Pride Month, so let’s take this opportunity to go over some ways you can support the LGBTQ+ folks in your life if they choose to share their experience with you. Your response should vary based on your relationship dynamic, but in general, these are some rules...
Be a Better Mental Health Ally: 7 Stigmatizing Phrases and What To Say Instead
Chances are, you’ve either said or heard each of these phrases. While not typically used with ill-intent, imagine for a moment being someone who experiences the mental health challenges described, and how you might interpret these statements. Small, intentional...
What to Expect in Your First Counseling Session
So you made the decision to start therapy. You sorted through lists of available therapists, found Star Meadow, and made an appointment. Congratulations! This is the hardest step, and we’re so proud of you for taking it. For most people who have never been to therapy...