5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Psychotherapy

Bring ALL of Your Emotions

Take note of which ones you try to avoid in addition to your highlights and wins. Though we often seek counseling to resolve pain points and conflict, it’s just as important to share your joy and successes. When you have the right therapist, it should be easy to feel open with your emotions to figure out what is and isn’t working for you.

Keep the Focus on YOU

It feels good to blow off steam about someone else’s wrongdoings. Eventually though, you’ll need to step back and ask how you can think about and respond differently to the situation. When you keep the focus on yourself, you’ll discover the resources to make the changes you want and be more empowered to make them.

Look for Themes and Patterns

Therapy is most effective when we can connect the dots between events and understand how our responses affect our well-being. These patterns can help uncover a deeper understanding of how to operate in different circumstances and will continue to serve you outside of therapy.

Talk About Your Next Session

It’s helpful to discuss what to expect for your next session. Your therapist may have specific areas they want you to report back on. This is also an opportunity to share any curiosities you might have about different treatment methods. For example, if you read about the benefits of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), you can share that with your therapist.

Continue The Work Outside Sessions

Therapy is an ongoing process. It’s important to apply what you’ve learned in counseling to your world. This can take form in pursuing a new career or repairing a broken relationship. Or it can take the form of more general intentions like not avoiding a difficult situation that makes you anxious. Meditation, exercises, and creative work can help you substantiate the change you’ve discussed in your sessions.

If you’re interested in seeing a therapist you can give us a call at 562-566-4257. At Daybreak Counseling Center we provide in-person psychotherapy, couples counseling, & mental health services in Long Beach, Cerritos, Brea, as well as online virtual therapy throughout all of California. Our online therapy services are provided via video throughout and can easily be accessed in the comfort of your home in accordance with your schedule. We understand that taking that first step toward getting help or seeking personal growth can be the hardest part and we understand that. We focus on providing a safe environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask difficult questions, and face challenging issues in a confidential exchange. We believe in the power of healing & growth that psychotherapy can provide & want all those that come through our doors to have amazing experience. Patrick Cleveland, L.M.F.T C.E.O. & Clinical Director Daybreak Counseling Center

About the Author

Patrick Cleveland, L.M.F.T.

Patrick is the Founder and Executive Director of Daybreak Counseling Center with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field. He specializes in helping high-functioning adults, professionals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and personal development. Patrick uses an integrative, evidence-based approach that blends psychoanalytic therapy, Internal Family Systems, and modern therapeutic methods to support lasting emotional growth and healing.

You don't have to be in a crisis to ask for help.

Many of our clients come to us feeling stuck, exhausted, or just not quite themselves. That’s enough.

Patrick Cleveland, L.M.F.T.

December 9, 2022

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