Well, it starts with entering the counselling space, either clicking that Zoom link or ringing the bell. I’ll continue imagining we are meeting in person; online counselling is a subject for another day! I answer the intercom and buzz you in. I meet you at the door and welcome you in, offering you a glass of water if you’d like. You can hang up your coat, pop your bag down, and make yourself comfortable on the sofa or in an armchair.
What happens next varies, but usually, I’ll ask how you have been since we last met. After all, there may be something you want to get off your chest or some development you’ve noticed. If I made a suggestion for homework in a previous session, I’ll check in as to whether that was helpful or prompted any thoughts. Homework is always optional! Often people say they haven’t had time or forgot. Sometimes it hasn’t worked, and it’s good to discuss that and see whether the technique needs tweaking or maybe there is something else going on to explore.
I find that conversation can flow naturally from this point as we discuss what has been new in the past week or go back to where we left off previously. I might ask questions. I might reflect back what you have said to me so you can hear it from outside yourself. I might share something I’m noticing as you speak. This may help you make connections or reflect – “It’s not so much that I do this, but more that I….” Sometimes there will be silence. That’s normal! It gives us some space to let our thoughts surface.
Sometimes I might suggest doing an exercise together or explain a concept I’m familiar with to help you. It’s my job to keep an eye on the time, so I’ll mention when we are close to the end of our session. We might end with a summary of what we’ve discussed or I might check in on what has been the takeaway from our time together. If there is anything I think would be helpful for you to reflect on as homework, I’ll mention this.
As we end, I may ask you a general question about your plans for the day, as you transition from counselling back to daily life. We’ll confirm the time and date of the next session. You can gather your belongings, and we say goodbye.