How to “do therapy” in Between Sessions

Blog Author: Amy Hamby, Intern Counselor

Most patients see their therapist weekly and often biweekly. There are many exercises patients can do in between sessions that can assist in future sessions. Occasionally therapist will give their patients “homework” such as journaling and breathing exercises. Depending on what someone is looking to get out of therapy there is plenty of outside work someone can do in between therapy sessions. Below are suggestions.
◦ Journaling. You can journal about your thoughts about the session you previously had, some questions you might have for your next session. It’s also a great idea to journal your feelings and thoughts throughout your daily life. Journaling is a great exercise that could be utilized in therapy because often patients forget about certain things and writing allows certain memories to come to the surface.
◦ Meditate. Meditation is a great grounding technique Allowing patients to become more mindful and present. Meditation can start off in smaller increments (1-5 minutes) and increase overtime.
◦ Connecting with nature. This can be done by gardening, combining a meditation outside, walking or doing any type of exercise outdoors.
◦ Going for a walk. Walking is a wonderful, low impact exercise that can assist in relieving stress and anxiety. Going for a walk is also connecting with nature.
◦ Focus on one thing at a time. Making list and prioritizing what needs to get done can help you focus on one task at a time.

Often people feel many different emotions after being with their therapist. Many of these exercises can help with the emotions in between sessions along with grounding and becoming more mindful.