ndividual therapy can be a powerful modality for the deep exploration of personal experience and the self. The purpose of this type of exploration is to give an experience of emotional release that can then clarify and enact what is needed to actualize long-term healing, self-management, and overall growth within the individual. Much of the counselor’s role in this process is to ensure certain parameters and conditions are in place to meet individual objectives in healing and growth, specifically within the context of presenting issues.
First and foremost to effective exploration is to cultivate an atmosphere of security, openness, and ease during sessions. We are not rushing to tick-off an abstract box or submit a project under deadline, instead we are taking this time to look within and get to know the subtleties of our inner-world. To guide whether or not effective exploration is taking place, when starting or returning to therapy, would be experiencing some sense similar to the relief and accomplishment felt after a courageous moment of confronting a fear or completing a challenge once thought outside of your ability. In these moments there is a sense of safety felt afterwards from expanding beyond one’s habitual experience and being able to manage or being met with support and understanding when it was unexpected. While therapy is very much so personal work, where effort is required and needs to be sustained, it should also be stamped and signed by a sense of overall rejuvenation and reward at a certain point in treatment.
