THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP

How important is it to treatment outcomes?

DEEP LISTENING - a way of hearing in which we are fully present with what is happening in the moment without trying to control it or judge it.

Deep listening is not only a tool. It is a treatment in and of itself. 

Move beyond assumptions about clients' experiences.

* Even common diagnoses such as depression and anxiety present differently for different individuals and call for unique interventions.

* Furthermore, direct questions save lives. You will learn much more about a client's safety and well-being, if you ask directly.

What better way to assess progress than to ask your clients about their experiences in and outside of therapy.

Feedback can be assessed verbally or by using brief measures. 

There are multiple contextual variables to consider in treatment planning, beyond diagnoses. 

Collaborate with your client to set realistic treatment goals by considering barriers that may impact treatment and progress. 

As therapists we often get caught up in the "rules" of documentation as well as fears regarding liability.

Documentation also serves as an opportunity to record and reflect on progress and milestones. 

Psychotherapy can invole longterm and or existential goals that are difficult to measure.

Consider including SMART goals in your treatment plan so that you can capitalize on short term measurable goals and mark SUCCESS!

Embrace change and flexibility. Sometimes your clients' circumstances or goals with change. Sometimes they will reveal new information. Therapist flexibility and creativity are key to meeting clients where they are at.