As a psychologist, I often hear clients express a desire for quick and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. However, the reality is that lasting change takes time and effort. One of the most important steps in the therapeutic process is committing to weekly therapy sessions. Often, I will suggest that clients wait to start therapy until they can commit to consistent weekly sessions for some period of time. Here are some reasons why starting strong with consistent weekly therapy can lead to the best outcomes.
Establishing a Strong Therapeutic Relationship: Developing a strong and trusting relationship with your therapist is crucial for success in therapy. Weekly sessions provide the opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know each other and work together towards your goals.
Consistency and Momentum: Attending therapy regularly allows for continuity and momentum in your progress. Each session builds upon the previous one and keeps you on track towards reaching your goals.
Addressing Immediate Concerns: Weekly therapy provides the opportunity to address immediate concerns as they arise and work through them in a timely manner. This can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems down the road.
Implementation of CBT Techniques: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a highly effective evidence-based treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression. Weekly therapy sessions provide the opportunity for you to practice and implement CBT techniques in real time with guidance from your therapist.
Overcoming Resistance: Starting therapy can often be overwhelming and it is not uncommon for individuals to experience resistance to change. However, attending weekly therapy helps to overcome this resistance and reinforces the idea that change is possible.
In conclusion, starting therapy with consistent weekly sessions is a crucial step in the process of improving mental health. This frequency allows for the establishment of a strong therapeutic relationship, consistency and momentum in progress, addressing immediate concerns, implementation of CBT techniques, and overcoming resistance to change. Don't be discouraged by the hard work it takes to get better, taking that first step towards weekly therapy is an investment in yourself that will pay off in the long run.