How I have an Effective Therapy Session

When therapy day is productive.

Effective Therapy Day for Neoma Conner

It's my only appointment that day, that's effective therapy for me. It is my only job of the day, and I have come to appreciate the simplicity and significance of this singular commitment. This appointment is not just a routine check-in; it represents a vital opportunity for self-reflection and growth. I have carved out this time specifically for my mental well-being, and I recognize the importance of prioritizing it amidst the chaos of daily life. I also realize my own limitations after deep diving into emotions of the past.

Optimal Timing of the Day

I prefer doing it early in the morning, as the sun begins to rise and the world around me is still quiet. This timing allows me to engage in the therapeutic process with a fresh mind, free from the distractions and demands that typically accumulate throughout the day. By completing this appointment early, I can return home and take the time to "lick my wounds," a phrase that perfectly encapsulates my need for self-care and recuperation after diving into my emotions. I know others who work and prefer therapy right before dinner and home life, finding solace in the idea of unwinding after a busy day. Each person has their own rhythm, and I have learned to honor mine.

My Coping Mechanisms

To facilitate my healing journey, I have all my comfort foods made ahead of time. These meals are not just sustenance; they represent a sense of safety and nurturing that I can rely on after my appointment. Whether it’s a warm bowl of soup or a sweet treat that brings back fond memories, these comforts help ground me and remind me that I am taking care of myself in multiple ways. Food has an incredible ability to soothe the soul, and I make sure to have my favorites readily available to indulge in afterward.

Additionally, I have curated a dance playlist that serves as an emotional outlet, a way to help me feel better after confronting difficult feelings. Music has a powerful influence on our emotions, and I find that dancing allows me to express what I might struggle to articulate. The rhythm and beats encourage movement, and in that movement, I can release pent-up energy and tension. It becomes a celebration of my resilience, a joyful way to reconnect with my body and spirit.

Most importantly, I remind myself that my therapy space is a safe haven, a sanctuary where I can explore my innermost thoughts without fear of judgment. No one can hurt me there; it is a realm where I am in complete control. If I "hear" something during our session that unsettles me or provokes discomfort, I have the power to pause, take a deep breath, and recalibrate my emotions. This sense of empowerment is crucial in my journey toward healing.

In many ways, I see myself akin to the buffalo in a thunderstorm. When buffalo sense a storm approaching, despite their strong instinctual fear, they run directly into the rain and towards the heart of the storm. This instinctive behavior is not a sign of recklessness but rather a profound understanding that facing the storm head-on allows them to emerge from it more quickly. They have learned that evading the storm only prolongs their suffering, and I have adopted a similar mindset in my emotional journey. I recognize that confronting my feelings, no matter how daunting, is essential for my healing process.

I learned a long time ago that running from the emotions that rise to the surface does not stop the tears or the feelings. In fact, it often exacerbates them. To heal, we must feel! So that's what I do: I allow myself to feel each emotion as it comes. I try to name it, to give it form and substance. If I am unsure what it is I am feeling, I take a moment to reflect and analyze it. I ask myself questions about when I felt that way, who was involved, and why it occurred. Is this feeling brand new, or have I encountered it before? More importantly, when was the first time I felt it? This introspective work requires patience and courage, but it is an invaluable part of my healing journey.

Conclusion

It can be exhausting work, grappling with the complexities of my emotions and experiences, but I firmly believe it is worth the effort. Each time I confront a feeling; I am one step closer to understanding myself and my needs. I remind myself of a crucial mantra: Progress over Perfection! This simple phrase helps me stay grounded, encouraging me to celebrate the small victories along the way rather than striving for an unattainable ideal. It is through these moments of progress that I continue to grow and evolve, ultimately leading to a healthier and happier me.