The most important aspect of therapy is the fit between you and your counselor. Feeling safe when sharing your experience allows counseling to be effective. When working with a new counselor, if you feel uncomfortable or reluctant to share after the first few sessions, it may be time to look for a different counselor.
Below is a comparison of my approach and other common approaches to counseling. Each counseling style has its strengths and draw backs. My hope is that information below helps you make an informed decision about the type of therapy you want to look for.
Counseling with Dan is…
Non-directive- I help you follow your intuition in the therapy process to help guide each step of the process including how much to share, when and how to push yourself, and how often to come in for sessions. You are the expert and I act as a supportive presence allowing the natural process of growth to unfold.
Strengths-based- This approach views symptoms as adaptive solutions to complex problems. Understanding how the symptom has helped you get through tough moments in life allows us to find new strategies that are less painful while also recognizing that letting go of habits is a process.
You may also consider a counselor who is…
Directive- The counselor uses their training and experience to create a treatment plan that sets clear goals for treatment. Often the client helps inform the treatment plan and the plan should be regularly reevaluated to ensure the counselor and client are both satisfied with the progress of therapy.
Diagnosis-focused- This approach recognizes the pain caused by symptoms and attempts to reduce the symptoms as efficiently as possible. Using evidenced-based practices shown to be effective for treating your diagnoses, the counselor may suggest appropriate interventions.