Finding a therapist who meets specific criteria, like being a person of color, builds rapport and trust.
Remote therapy lacks the immersive experience of in-person sessions and may feel like work meetings.
Deep dives
Getting a New Therapist
The podcast episode explores the process of finding and getting to know a new therapist. The speaker shares their own experience of searching for a therapist who meets their specific criteria, such as being a person of color and having a personal connection. They discuss the initial sessions and the gradual building of rapport and vulnerability. The speaker also reflects on the awkwardness of ending therapy sessions and the challenges of making small talk or asking personal questions to the therapist.
Remote Therapy vs. In-person Therapy
The speaker briefly mentions their experience with remote therapy and highlights the differences compared to in-person sessions. They note that remote sessions can feel more like work meetings and may lack the immersive experience of being in the therapist's dedicated space. The speaker also shares their own anxiety about potential distractions and awkwardness during remote sessions. They express a preference for in-person therapy, as it provides a safer and more curated environment for therapy.
Gradual Progress and Breakthroughs
The speaker reflects on the gradual progress and breakthroughs in therapy, particularly in terms of building trust and vulnerability with the therapist. They share personal anecdotes about sessions where they felt comfortable sharing deeper thoughts and insecurities. The speaker mentions the relief when their therapist offers insightful advice or perspectives that break their thought patterns. They acknowledge the importance of both listening and providing guidance in therapy.
Approaching and Ending Therapy Sessions
The speaker discusses the dynamics of beginning and ending therapy sessions. They share their own approach of making casual remarks or observations as an icebreaker before diving into deeper topics. The speaker recognizes the awkwardness that can arise when saying goodbye at the end of sessions, particularly in terms of walking to the door and making small talk. They express a desire to improve their own approach to ending sessions and potentially engage in more small talk with their therapist.
Today we talk about getting a new therapist! We dive into the process of opening up and breaking down walls in therapy. We also discuss the differences in types of therapy we’ve experienced. We talk about making small talk with your therapist and using real names in therapy.
