المدونة

A helpful therapy relationship goes beyond the name of a method. Feeling heard and being able to give feedback are signs worth noticing.

Beyond the name of a method

Therapy approaches have names, but a name alone does not tell you whether sessions feel worthwhile. From the client's side, several signs suggest a working relationship is on track. You feel listened to. You understand what the plan is and why. You feel able to say when something is not helping, without worrying about offending anyone.

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, brings qualifications in psychotherapy to her sessions and welcomes that kind of honesty.

Feedback is part of the process

You can bring reflections into any session with Christine. You might explain what you took away from the last conversation, what felt uncomfortable and which topics you would like more time on. You might also say if the pace feels too fast or too slow.

Reviewing how the relationship is going is an ordinary part of psychological work. It does not need to be saved up as a complaint for the final session.

When a different fit might help

Sometimes, despite good intentions on both sides, another approach or practitioner would suit you better. Raising that possibility is reasonable. Christine can discuss options openly, including referral to a psychologist, psychiatrist or another service, and your GP can help coordinate care.

If you ever feel unsafe or overwhelmed between appointments, call 000 or a 24-hour crisis line straight away.

Agreeing on a direction

The work should centre on your priorities. Consider which questions you most want answered, where you feel blocked and what small sign in daily life would tell you something had moved. It is fair to ask when the two of you will step back and take stock, and who else can help if your situation changes.

Writing a few notes after each session can make it easier to give feedback next time.

Psychotherapy in Lane Cove

For people living or working near Lane Cove, a local appointment can make regular sessions easier to sustain. Psychotherapy with Christine takes place at the Lane Cove clinic, where an initial meeting is also a chance to see whether her style of working suits you.