If you are considering psychiatric counseling, you may wonder what to expect. After all, most people who have never gone to counseling only have scenarios from television to work from. What does therapy actually look like in reality?

These are some of the stages of therapy, designed so that you have the best chances of treatment and improving your life from day one.

Opening

The first process involved in therapy is opening. This is an important part of the process, because it allows your client to get to know you. These initial interactions help set the tone for the relationship and help your therapist know what you can do together to move forward with the counseling process.

Developing Understanding

The next steps involve your counselor understanding more than what is on the surface. You will express concerns, and the counselor will determine what they might indicate and how they can develop a treatment option for you. Together, you will both set goals and expectations for your future counseling sessions.

During this time, you will reveal some of your biggest concerns. Your therapist will then reflect on some of your concerns and ensure that they have clarity and understanding of the situation.

Creating a Treatment Plan

Intervention is the next step in the process, and it involves your counselor choosing a treatment plan or technique that works best for you. Together, you will set up an approach for dealing with or coping with the concerns you have spelled out.

This process involves an exploration about why you've chosen counseling and what you hope to get. You will express your thoughts and feelings about different events, and you may work out why you feel this way.

Empowerment

By the end of your sessions, you should feel a sense of empowerment, a sense of your own ability to move forward. You will be able to take the techniques you have learned in class and then utilize them in your real life. You will use these methods in your relationships, professional life, education, and personal life so that you feel your best.

Speak With a Psychiatric Counselor Today

Counseling is available to help you work through a variety of issues you may be experiencing. No matter what kind of mental health concern or situation you are experiencing, it is important to speak with a psychiatrist counselor. They can advise you how to move forward with therapy and treatment.