In The Media...
How can I measure my progress in therapy?
The earliest signs of progress in therapy often manifest as increasing awareness of the various ways in which one is "stuck." Relatively early in treatment, one may likely begin to recognize self-defeating patterns or habits of thinking, feeling and behaving without necessarily being able to change them immediately. Later, after watching these habits at work and discussing with the therapist the causes and effects of these habits, the individual is able to make changes and let go of old patterns. As this self-actualization process deepens, one begins to feel more natural, spontaneous and at ease in all areas of life. Genuine emotions come more freely and relationships deepen. Old patterns of worrying and obsessing become much less disruptive.
|
Along the way, however, there are likely to be difficult times in treatment, and it is not uncommon for the dedicated client to experience occasional periods of increased confusion or anxiety—at times likely feeling angry with, resentful toward, or distrustful of the therapist. Ironically, although such times may be difficult, they can also be some of the most encouraging signs of progress and change. |
Rather than being obstacles to the treatment process, these times of increased anxiety, frustration and confusion can propel the therapeutic process to higher levels of self-awareness and more satisfying life experiences. To make the most of such difficulties, however, the client should openly discuss these feelings with the therapist so that seeming treatment obstacles can be used adaptively to further the process.
