The metaphor of “holding space” for a client or someone in need has become increasingly popular among mental health professionals. It’s not uncommon to hear therapists talk about the importance of “holding space” for their clients’ pain. What does it mean to hold space for a client? At a fundamental
When Therapy Isn’t Working
There are numerous reasons why clients end therapy. The most obvious is that the clients feel ready to take what they’ve learned from therapy into their lives. Another common reason is that the circumstances of a client’s life have changed and the therapy has become less of a necessity because
Getting the Most Out of Therapy
If you are thinking about starting therapy, or if you are already working with a psychologist or counselor, you obviously want to get the most out of your counseling experience. Although there is a substantial body of research showing that psychotherapy is helpful for a wide range of emotional issues,
Questions to Ask Your Therapist
It can feel daunting to find a new therapist and start therapy. Therapy requires you to share extremely personal information about yourself and your life — a process that makes you vulnerable — so finding someone you feel good about is vital. Even if you have an appointment with a
Self-Care for Therapists
For the most part, the people who come to see therapists are in pain. Some are in great anguish. While the tendency at both a societal and individual level is to turn away from the suffering of others, therapists turn toward the pain of others. To establish a healing relationship,