Is it working? i.e. Are you making progress in therapy?

So you’ve entered therapy, a good first step in feeling better, healing from past traumas and learning new coping skills. But how do you know if it’s working?

Measuring progress in therapy isn’t an exact science as therapy experiences are subjective and it can take time to see results (Sometimes, a therapist will impart skills you can use immediately after your first session; other times, you’ll have an almost surreal lightbulb moment in session number 8, after you’ve learned how to tap into your inner workings).

While you can’t expect to accomplish all of your therapy goals overnight, you should see some level of progress after a few sessions.

Signs that indicate progress in therapy:

✅ You feel symptom relief when you’re in the therapist’s office (then further into therapy in between sessions as well)

✅ Your moods and emotions have improved

✅ You gained a useful insight into why you’re feeling a certain way or the experiences you’re having

✅ You’ve learned a tangible skill for your mental wellbeing that you can use in your daily life

✅ Your thinking has shifteoals

✅ You feel less guilty about mistakes or choices you’ve made and are more able to forgive others

✅ Your behaviors have changed

✅ Your relationships with others are better

✅ You have better life satisfaction

✅ Your diagnosis changes

✅ You’re more hopeful about the future

You’re a unique person with a unique set of circumstances and issues. What’s right for another person may not be right for you. Don’t put a limit on what’s needed for you to feel better. Take your time to work through your issues, giving yourself as much time as you need. Your active participation, along with a competent therapist, helps get you where you want to be.

#stickwithit

If, however, you feel like you are not making progress, do speak to your therapist. A good therapist is always open to feedback on what is working and what isn't. They will check your treatment plan and whether it is still in alignment with your goals, may refer you to another provider or suggest and adjunct type of treatment. It could also be that you are simply not ready for therapy. Therapists are professionals and it is part of their profession to put your wellbeing first. Most people see two or more therapists before they find the right person so don't give up on therapy altogether!