How To Know If Counselling Is Working For You?

How to know if counselling is working?
How to know if counselling is working?

Starting therapy is an important step towards improving your mental health and overall well-being. But as you begin this journey, you might be asking yourself, “How do I know if counselling is working?”

This is a common concern, and you’re not alone in wondering whether the time, effort, and money you’re investing in therapy are truly paying off.

Understanding whether therapy is working is not always straightforward. Progress in therapy can look different for everyone, depending on your goals, the issues you’re dealing with, and your journey.

Fortunately, several key signs and indicators can help you assess whether counselling is having a positive impact on your life.

In this guide, we’ll explore these signs and help you identify whether your therapy is moving in the right direction. If you’re wondering “Is counselling working?”, this article will provide insight into what to look for to track your progress and recognise the benefits of therapy.


Why Is It Important to Know If Counselling is Working?

Before we dive into the specific signs, it’s important to understand why knowing whether counselling is working is crucial. Therapy is an investment in your mental health and future, and it’s only natural to want to see tangible results.

Being able to track your progress gives you a sense of direction and helps you determine whether your therapy sessions are effectively addressing your needs.


Signs That Counselling Is Working

Here are some of the most common signs that therapy is working, and how you can recognise them in your own life:


1. Improved Mood and Emotional State

One of the most immediate and noticeable indicators that counselling is working is an improvement in your emotional state and mood. If you started therapy to address feelings of anxiety, depression, or emotional distress, pay attention to whether these feelings have lessened over time.

For example, if your anxiety has reduced, you’re feeling less overwhelmed, or if your depressive symptoms have improved, this is a clear sign that therapy is having a positive effect.

How to Recognise This Sign:
  • You may feel happier or more at ease.
  • You’re experiencing fewer emotional highs and lows.
  • Your anxiety or sadness feels more manageable.
  • You’re able to cope better with stress and emotional challenges.

Improved emotional well-being means that your therapy is on track, and the strategies and interventions you’re working on are starting to take effect.


2. Observable Behaviour Changes

Another strong indicator that therapy is working is when you notice positive changes in your behaviour. You may have started therapy to address habits or actions that were affecting your life negatively, such as self-destructive behaviour, unhealthy coping mechanisms, or difficulties with assertiveness.

If you’re noticing that these behaviours are either reducing in frequency or disappearing altogether, this is a key sign that counselling is helping you make significant changes in your life.

For example, if you come to therapy to build confidence and learn to say “no” more often, and you find yourself doing so more comfortably, it shows that you’re progressing.

How to Recognise This Sign:
  • You’re acting in a way that aligns more with your values and goals.
  • You’ve stopped engaging in unhealthy habits, like over-eating, excessive drinking, or avoidance.
  • You’re taking proactive steps toward change, like standing up for yourself or setting healthier boundaries.

When you notice changes in your behaviour, it’s an indication that the work you’re doing in therapy is helping to reshape your life in positive ways.


3. A Shift in Thinking Patterns

A fundamental aspect of therapy is changing your thought patterns. If you’ve noticed a shift from negative to more positive or constructive thinking, it’s a good sign that your therapy sessions are making a difference.

This could include a decrease in negative self-talk, more balanced perspectives on past events, and an increase in self-compassion. Additionally, therapy can help you develop problem-solving skills, enabling you to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

How to Recognise This Sign:
  • You find yourself thinking more positively or more realistically.
  • Negative or self-critical thoughts are less frequent or intense.
  • You approach challenges with a more constructive mindset.
  • You’re able to focus on the present and future instead of getting stuck in the past.

When your thinking patterns start to shift, it means that therapy is helping you build a healthier, more positive relationship with yourself and the world around you.


4. Acquisition of New Coping Skills

One of the most practical benefits of therapy is the acquisition of new coping skills. Therapy can provide you with tools to handle stress, anxiety, negative emotions, and difficult life circumstances more effectively.

If you’re noticing that you’re able to manage emotions better or use specific techniques, such as mindfulness or cognitive restructuring, in your daily life, it’s a good sign that therapy is equipping you with the skills you need.

For example, if you’ve learned how to manage anxiety through breathing exercises or how to challenge negative thoughts using cognitive behavioural techniques (CBT), and you’re finding these techniques effective, this indicates that your therapy is working.

How to Recognise This Sign:
  • You can manage stress more effectively.
  • Your anxiety levels have decreased, and you feel more in control.
  • You’re using practical tools like journaling, meditation, or relaxation techniques regularly.
  • You’re able to cope with difficult emotions more successfully.

Mastering new coping skills is an essential part of therapy and an excellent indicator that you’re making progress.

How To Know If Counselling Is Working?

5. Increased Self-Awareness

A key benefit of therapy is developing a deeper understanding of yourself. Increased self-awareness allows you to become more attuned to your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

This heightened awareness can make it easier to make better decisions, improve relationships, and create healthier boundaries.

When you begin to notice that you are more in tune with your emotions and have a clearer sense of your values and desires, it’s a sign that your therapy is making a lasting impact.

How to Recognise This Sign:
  • You have a better understanding of your triggers and emotional responses.
  • You’re more able to identify patterns in your thoughts, behaviours, and relationships.
  • You’re more confident in making decisions and setting boundaries.
  • You’re growing in self-compassion and self-esteem.

Increased self-awareness is empowering and a strong sign of progress in therapy.


6. Improved Relationships

Counselling often has a positive effect on your relationships with others. As you work on your issues, such as self-esteem, communication, and emotional regulation, you may start to notice that your relationships improve as well.

You might find that you’re communicating more openly, resolving conflicts more effectively, or setting healthier boundaries with friends, family, or colleagues. If your relationships are becoming more fulfilling and harmonious, it’s a strong sign that therapy is working.

How to Recognise This Sign:
  • You’re finding it easier to communicate your needs and emotions.
  • Conflicts with others are resolved more peacefully.
  • You’re developing healthier boundaries and asserting yourself more.
  • You’re feeling more connected and supported in your relationships.

Positive changes in relationships are a key benefit of therapy and indicate that you’re making progress.


7. Life Satisfaction and Fulfillment

Lastly, one of the most noticeable signs that therapy is working is when your overall life satisfaction improves. Therapy isn’t just about addressing specific issues; it’s also about enhancing your general well-being.

If you’re starting to feel more content, more fulfilled, or more hopeful about your future, this is a clear indication that therapy is making a positive difference in your life.

When life feels more satisfying, and you experience a greater sense of purpose, you can confidently say that therapy is moving you in the right direction.

How to Recognise This Sign:
  • You feel more content with your life and your choices.
  • You have a clearer sense of purpose or direction.
  • You experience more enjoyment and fulfilment in everyday activities.
  • You feel more hopeful about the future.

What to Do If You’re Not Seeing Progress

If you’re not experiencing these signs and are wondering, “Is counselling working for me?”, it’s important to discuss this with your therapist. Therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist can help you reassess your goals, adjust your approach, or suggest different techniques.

Sometimes, it may take a bit of time to see significant changes. However, consistent open communication with your therapist can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your sessions.


How Do You Know Counselling Is Working

Determining whether counselling is working can feel uncertain at times, but by looking for these key signs—such as improved mood, behaviour changes, and increased self-awareness—you can gauge whether therapy is making a positive impact on your life.

Therapy is a process, and it’s important to be patient with yourself as you work through your goals.

By paying attention to how you’re feeling, thinking, and behaving, you’ll be able to track your progress and recognise the benefits that counselling can bring.

If you’re still unsure, remember that an open conversation with your therapist can help you evaluate your progress and ensure that you’re heading in the right direction.

Remember, counselling is an investment in your well-being, and the positive changes you’re seeking are within reach. Stay patient, stay committed, and trust the process.


Low Cost Online Counselling

Our low-cost counselling service gives you access to private therapy for only £29. Just follow these two simple steps to access our affordable counselling service.

Step 1: Go to the self referral contact form below.

Step 2: Complete the form to book and secure an initial free consultation.

It’s as simple as that. One of our team will contact you within 24 hours to discuss your needs.

Self Referral Form