Tips for Getting the Most Out of Counseling

All of us at So That We Biblical Counseling have been in the seat of the counselee, so we are very aware of the stewardship of time and money of those who come for counseling with us. We often try to discuss ways to help them make the most of each session, as well as the time between sessions, to steward those resources well. These are a few of our recommendations for how to make the most of the season you are in counseling.

1. BE CONSISTENT. Schedule regular sessions. Many people like to start with weekly until they begin to gain momentum, then move to bi-monthly, and finally to “as needed.” The best progress is made with consistency. Your spiritual, emotional, physical, and relational health is necessary, not an "add-on," and not selfish.

2. WRITE THINGS DOWN. Write during sessions if you'd like (we can give you summaries if writing during session distracts you), but definitely in between sessions. Many people like to buy a specific notepad or journal for counseling to capture reflections and goals from their sessions, and to make notes in between regarding what we’re working on. This increases the productivity of the counseling process because it aids memory and self-reflection.

3. DO THE HOMEWORK. Work on/complete any "homework," whether it's reflections, journaling, or specific "to-dos" such as worksheet exercises or Scripture readings. It can help to schedule this time, just like you would schedule your session.

4. ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF. Advocate for what you want and need. We try to be sensitive to where each person is in their journey. It’s okay to tell us if you want more or less Scripture or theological content than what we’re giving, that you need us to be more gentle in how we challenge you, or that you need us to shoot more straight with you. It’s okay to need more structure or to need things to be more organic. We will not be offended! We are doing our best to read the situation, but despite what you may think, we can't read your mind. :)

5. REFLECT ON YOUR SESSION. Add quiet thinking time to your schedule immediately following your appointment. For example, try driving home without music on. Jot down final notes when you arrive at your destination before going in. For Zoom clients, allow a 15-minute or more buffer before moving into activities with other people so you can allow yourself to finish processing, let your thoughts settle, and jot down a few final notes.

6. COMMUNICATE. Email your counselor with any clarifying questions or small updates between sessions if you need to.

Many people are anxious about starting counseling, and tips like these can help you know what to expect and how to make the most of it. The goal is not to be in counseling forever, but to utilize it as a resource when you need it to help through a season or struggle. We believe counselors and counseling tools are conduits, but the source of our hope and healing is Christ. He is an "ever-present help in time of trouble."

Curious about starting counseling? Visit us at www.sothatwe.com.