The Power of Empathy and Connection in Therapy

When I was in graduate school, getting my Masters in Social Work, I came across a quote that changed my entire practice. It read, “You may have nothing in common, but you’re together in that room. And often, that is more than enough.”

As a fully functioning adult at the time, who also happened to get confused for a teenager on multiple occasions, this resonated deeply.

The effectiveness of therapy has little to do with our age or shared experiences. It does, however, have everything to do with the therapeutic alliance, skills of the therapist, and willingness of the client to be engaged in the process wholeheartedly. 

Here, I want to share with you some important pieces of the therapeutic process to consider as you move through your own therapy journey, whether this be the start, middle, or end.

1. Focus on Therapeutic Expertise

Shift the focus from age or life experiences to the therapist's expertise and qualifications. A skilled therapist can understand and support you regardless of their age. 

It's human tendency to want to be understood and to find connection with others. However, the therapy space is meant to be an unbiased, non-judgemental space. Oftentimes, having your therapist be unaccustomed to a specific situation can be more beneficial. It offers another perspective that allows you to see outside of your own lens, bringing in new ideas and options for you to live a life you feel proud of!

2. Embrace Empathy and Understanding

A skilled therapist brings empathy and understanding to the space, which enables them to empathize with your experiences and emotions, regardless of their personal background.

3. Establish Trust and Open Communication

Prioritize building trust and open communication with your therapist. A strong therapeutic alliance creates a safe space for growth and healing. Plus, the more honest you can be with your therapist, the more understanding they will have about how you live your life and what might not be working for you anymore.

4. Recognize Therapeutic Techniques and Approaches

Explore the therapeutic techniques and approaches your therapist uses. Their expertise lies in their training and ability to tailor treatment to your unique needs. Several therapy modalities support different diagnoses and client needs. Speak with your therapist about what is and is not working about your sessions, making sure there is time in each session for reflection and feedback.

5. Emphasize the Power of Connection

The healing power of therapy lies in the authentic connection between you and your therapist. A supportive therapeutic relationship facilitates personal growth and positive change. When we feel connected to those supporting us, we embrace a sense of authenticity and autonomy, which can encourage us to be persistent in instances where we might have felt powerless.

Therapy thrives on objectivity and trust, enabling unbiased insights and a safe space for self-expression. Embracing the unfamiliar in therapy opens doors to transformative breakthroughs and a deeper understanding of who you are and can become. Remember that your therapist is a guide in this journey, and by honoring the uniqueness of the therapeutic connection, you can achieve profound healing and self-awareness on your path to wellness.

Stay curious, stay informed, stay awesome ✨