How to Start a Therapy Session as a Therapist

Summary

The video script offers a comprehensive guide for therapists on structuring the initial moments of therapy sessions. It emphasizes the importance of preparation, punctuality, consistency in session structure, and establishing a safe and welcoming environment. The speaker provides tips on engaging in polite conversation, ensuring technological readiness for virtual sessions, and conducting a safety and symptom check when necessary. The script also highlights the significance of adhering to ethical guidelines and the importance of creating a routine that fosters a sense of safety for clients. Sponsored by therapynotes.com, the video is aimed at helping therapists enhance their practice.

Takeaways

• 📝 Always be prepared before the session starts by reviewing the client's notes and treatment goals.
• ⏰ Start the session on time to demonstrate respect for the client's time and establish a professional relationship.
• 🔄 Maintain a consistent structure at the beginning of each session to create a sense of routine and safety for the client.
• 🗣️ Offer polite and non-therapeutic remarks when greeting the client, especially during the transition from waiting room to office.
• 🏡 Provide avenues of hospitality, such as checking if the client needs a drink or if the room temperature is comfortable.
• 💻 For virtual sessions, check in on technology, confidentiality, and the client's location to ensure a safe and secure environment.
• 🔐 Prioritize client safety by conducting a symptom and safety check at the beginning of the session when appropriate.
• 🔄 Allow for flexibility in session structure to accommodate new issues that may have arisen since the last meeting.
• 🗣️ Engage the client in deciding where to start the session, showing respect for their input and needs.
• 🌟 Sponsorship acknowledgment: TherapyNotes.com is highlighted for its comprehensive features in scheduling, notes, billing, and telehealth.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video script?

The main focus of the video script is to discuss how to structure the beginning of therapy sessions, including preparation, starting on time, maintaining consistency, offering polite remarks, and ensuring client comfort.

Why is it important to be prepared before a therapy session begins?

Being prepared before a therapy session helps the therapist to review the client's treatment goals and progress, ensuring continuity and relevance in the session, and demonstrating to the client that the therapist is attentive and committed to their progress.

What are the implications of starting therapy sessions late?

Starting therapy sessions late can give the impression to the client that the therapist does not value their time or prioritize them, which can negatively impact the therapeutic relationship and the client's sense of safety and trust.

How does maintaining a consistent structure at the beginning of therapy sessions benefit the client?

Consistency in the beginning of therapy sessions creates a sense of routine and safety for the client, helping them to feel more comfortable and prepared to engage in the therapeutic process.

What role do polite remarks play in the initial phase of a therapy session?

Polite remarks can serve as a non-therapy-related conversation starter, helping to ease the client into the session and transition from the waiting room to the therapeutic space.

Why is it important to check in on the client's comfort and needs at the beginning of a session?

Checking in on the client's comfort and needs, such as offering refreshments or adjusting the room temperature, helps to create a welcoming environment and ensures the client feels at ease, which is conducive to effective therapy.

What specific considerations are important for the start of virtual therapy sessions?

For virtual therapy sessions, it's important to check in on technology, confidentiality, and the client's location to ensure a smooth session and maintain the necessary standards of care.

How can a safety and symptom check be incorporated into the beginning of a therapy session?

A safety and symptom check can be incorporated by asking relevant questions about the client's well-being, thoughts of self-harm, or any recent symptoms, particularly for clients who may be at risk or in need of such assessments.

What is the significance of having a formal structure to kick off the therapy session after the initial check-ins?

Having a formal structure to begin the therapy session after initial check-ins helps to set the tone and expectation for the session, allowing the client and therapist to focus on the therapeutic work at hand.

How does the therapist's preparation and punctuality contribute to the client's experience?

The therapist's preparation and punctuality demonstrate professionalism and respect for the client's time, which can enhance the client's trust and willingness to engage in the therapy process.