How I Approach Therapy - Jill Coghlan-Uttridge
When is it time for therapy?
“Something isn’t working” is one way to describe how people may feel when they begin to think about seeing a therapist. That “thing” could be a relationship, coping skills, feelings/mood, or behavior. It can feel minor or be seriously affecting ones daily functioning. Regardless of the severity of the issues, only the client can truly commit to therapy and, ultimately, do what it takes to change. I strongly encourage my potential clients to not only identify what isn’t working but also determine if they are willing to put in the effort and possible discomfort necessary for success. This will help answer if now is the right time.
Who is the right therapist?
Even after the decision is made to go forward, the idea of therapy may feel frightening, empowering, uncomfortable, painful, exciting, or all of the above. However you enter the process, the relationship between you and your therapist can hinder or enhance your experience. Therefore, it is important to spend some time thinking about your therapeutic needs and who may be the most appropriate fit.
Three factors to consider when choosing a therapist are, technique, and personal style. “Experience” and who has expertise in your area of need refers to someone who has seen many clients over several years but looking specifically for someone specializing in your area of need. For example, if you are dealing with an addiction, seek someone with experience and training in that area. Experience with treating children is also important when choosing a therapist. Send your child to a child therapist versus someone who only sees an occasional child as part of a family.
The techniques and therapeutic style a therapist use should reflect what you desire in your therapy experience. “Technique” refers to the ways in which a therapist may elicit change.
The “style” of the therapist is the manner in which these techniques are carried out. Someone wanting direct feedback from a very active therapist may not want to select someone describing her main approach as “supportive listening.” In addition to the above-mentioned factors, trusting your therapist is imperative for success. A safe, non-judgmental environment should be provided.
How do I approach therapy?
My orientation from which I work is eclectic, utilizing a variety of techniques and tools including:
For the last nine years I have worked in the counseling field, seeing individuals (older children, adolescents and adults), couples and families. My work with individuals has focused on depressive issues, parenting, grief, and trauma. I have seen adolescents for a range of behavioral issues, such as self-concept work, family issues and school problems. When seeing adolescents, it is crucial that parents participate in the initial appointment. Parents or other family members may also be asked to join as needed throughout therapy. In my experience, seeing how an adolescent functions as part of his or her family system and vice versa is extremely helpful in diagnosing problems and addressing them. My experience with couples and families includes dealing with abusive patterns (emotional, physical and sexual). I have worked extensively with families dealing with the issue of juvenile sexual offending, working with those who have offended, victims and parents.
Previous clients would describe my style as supportive yet direct, gentle while confronting or challenging, and frequently incorporating humor. My philosophy on the client/therapist relationship is that it is a partnership in which both parties are open and honest. As a therapist, it is my job to help guide the process. However, success occurs when clients are motivated in and out of session to make wanted changes. I hope this has been helpful in illustrating my background and overall approach to therapy.