therapy is a collaborative process

In therapy, we work together to make decisions about what path to take.

In a collaborative (therapeutic) relationship, both people matter equally.  

Because trust is such vital part of personal growth in therapy, it is important that there is no hierarchy of experience or knowledge (i.e.: the therapist is not the expert, YOU are the expert about YOU).  

This environment allows for ongoing dialogue about the work we are doing together.  It allows you to share your ideas about the direction of therapy, share what has been helpful so far, as well as what’s not working, and what we can do about this together.

These are some of the essential ingredients in a collaborative process:

integrity

accountability

transparency

authenticity

respect

negotiation

checking in

cooperation

sensitivity

listening

What would you add to this list? 

What allows you to feel seen, heard, acknowledged, celebrated, and supported?