You’ve taken the important step of beginning therapy, a significant move towards improving your life. However, you may find yourself wondering, “How do I know counselling is working?” Measuring progress in therapy isn’t straightforward.
You likely put thought into selecting a therapist you feel comfortable with. But what’s the next step? How can you gauge whether therapy is heading in a positive direction?
It’s understandable to be concerned about the possibility of spending a considerable amount of time and resources on therapy, similar to someone you may know who’s been in and out of therapy for years.
Determining whether therapy is working varies from person to person and on your goals and aspirations. Nevertheless, there are several signs to look out for that can help us know counselling is working.
1. Improved mood and emotional state
You may have begun to observe some positive changes in your emotional state or overall mood.
For instance, if you initially sought therapy to address anxiety, consider whether you’re feeling less anxious, experiencing reduced nervousness, or finding that your worries have diminished. Alternatively, if your primary goal was to manage depression, assess how your symptoms have evolved. Are you feeling happier?
These improvements in mood and emotional well-being are clear indicators that you’re moving in the right direction in therapy.
2. Behaviour has started to change
A significant sign that counselling is having a positive impact is the observable changes in your behaviour. If you previously engaged in self-destructive habits or relied on harmful coping mechanisms, and you now notice that these behaviours are occurring less frequently or have ceased altogether, this is a strong indication that counselling is proving effective.
For example, if your goal in counselling was to develop more confidence, assertiveness, and the ability to say no to people, and you’re now finding yourself taking the initiative and speaking up more often, it signifies that counselling is bringing about the desired changes.
When there is a noticeable reduction or transformation in your behaviour, or when you successfully leave behind negative habits, it’s a clear sign that counselling is making a positive difference in your life.
3. Your thinking has shifted
Another way to know if counselling is working is a change in thinking.
You may have noticed a decrease in negative thoughts and an increase in positive ones. Destructive thought patterns may have given way to more constructive ones. Instead of dwelling on the past or fixating on what could have been, your thoughts are now focused on the present and your future.
Counselling is also instrumental in developing problem-solving skills and enhancing your decision-making abilities. When you encounter a new challenge, consider how you would have approached it before you began therapy. Are you finding it easier to navigate life’s obstacles now?
It’s important to recognise that your thoughts greatly influence your actions. As your thought patterns evolve in a positive direction, your actions tend to follow suit, further indicating that counselling is having a beneficial impact on your well-being.
4. New coping skills
Counselling often equips people with a toolbox of coping skills, techniques, and strategies to navigate life’s challenges. If you’re finding these tools effective in managing various aspects of your life, it’s a strong indication that counselling is working for you.
For instance, if you’ve learned to manage anxiety through breathing exercises or have found clarity in your thoughts through journaling techniques, it demonstrates that the counselling process has been beneficial in providing you with practical ways to address your concerns.
These newfound coping mechanisms can significantly contribute to your overall well-being and personal growth.
5. Increased self-awareness
Counselling often leads to a deeper understanding of oneself, which can be incredibly empowering. Developing self-awareness, to become more aware of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, is a significant outcome of counselling. Many clients gradually start to notice this heightened self-awareness.
When you have a clearer understanding of yourself, it becomes easier to make positive changes. You can make more informed decisions about your future, build healthier relationships, and communicate effectively with others. Self-awareness often translates into increased confidence and self-esteem, contributing to personal growth and well-being.
6. Relationships with others have improved
One of the significant signs that will help you to know counselling is working, is improvements in your relationships with loved ones, friends, or colleagues. For instance, if you previously had frequent conflicts with others and now find that your relationships are calmer, this could indicate that you’ve been applying conflict resolution skills developed in therapy or have enhanced your self-awareness.
Furthermore, pay attention to improvements in communication and your ability to establish healthy boundaries. These positive changes often signal that counselling has had a beneficial impact on your life and interpersonal connections.
7. Life is more satisfying
An unmistakable sign that counselling is effective is when life becomes more satisfying. Counselling can significantly enhance your overall well-being. So, if you experience improvements in your quality of life, such as increased fulfilment, a clearer sense of purpose, or greater satisfaction, consider it a positive indication of progress.
Recognising any improvement in any aspect of your life, no matter how small, can serve as a powerful motivator to continue your counselling journey.
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.
