5 Tips to Make Therapy Successful

In school, students often receive a syllabus or rubric that outlines the expectations for success. But when it comes to therapy, the path to growth may feel less clear. Many people ask, “What makes therapy successful?” or “How can I get the most out of therapy?”

While there’s no grade book for mental health, there are proven ways to improve your chances of having successful therapy sessions. Below are five essential tips for making therapy effective and meaningful.

1) Actively Participate in Therapy

One of the most important therapy success tips is active participation. Therapy is not about your therapist telling you what to do, it’s about collaboration between you and your therapist. When you are open in discussions, ask questions, and set goals together, you are able to take ownership of your progress. The more engaged you are, the more effective your therapy becomes.

2) Set Clear Therapy Goals

Setting therapy goals gives your sessions purpose. Work with your therapist to create goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound (SMART). Your therapist can help you to track your progress, stay motivated, and provide guidance on how to best achieve your goals, maintain motivation, and make your therapy journey a success.

3) Build a Strong Therapeutic Relationship

The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the success and effectiveness of therapy. Be open to building a meaningful connection with your therapist and work on developing a relationship of trust and understanding with them. Your therapist should be someone you trust to help you achieve your best self and someone who can help you set clear goals and help you obtain those goals.

4) Be Honest and Open in Therapy

Honesty in therapy is vital to your success in therapy. If you don’t feel comfortable being open, it might be a sign that the therapist isn’t the right fit. Therapy should be a safe space to explore your emotions, your thoughts, and your behaviors. By being authentic and open with the therapist and yourself, you allow yourself to experience the full benefits of therapy! That might include improving mental health, strengthening relationships, or working through personal challenges.

5) Practice Self Care Outside of Therapy

Self-Care is one of the most important parts of therapy success. We have saved the best for last! Processing emotions and working toward growth can be hard, so supporting yourself outside of sessions is crucial. This might include healthy eating, exercise, spending time in nature, or connecting with loved ones. By prioritizing your wellbeing, you reinforce the progress you’re making in therapy.

Final Thoughts on Successful Therapy

Unlike school, therapy doesn’t come with grades but there are clear ways to measure success. By actively participating, setting goals, building a strong relationship, being honest, and practicing self-care, you can get the most out of therapy and create lasting change.

If you’ve been wondering “How do I know if therapy is working?” or “What makes therapy effective?” these five strategies are a great place to start. With the right approach, therapy can be a powerful tool for healing, growth, and personal transformation.

Are you interested in starting therapy? Call 801.513.1780 to schedule your initial consultation with one of our therapists at Cottonwood Counseling & Coaching today!