When most people are referred to therapy, they usually have no idea what to expect. What would you and your therapist talk about for an hour every week? Would it be like a counseling session or more like a conversation with a friend? Well, turns out, it’s a bit of both.

Therapy sessions are all about talking openly and honestly about what’s going on in your life. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in this–your therapist is there to help guide the conversation and offer support. If you’re curious about what to talk about in therapy, read on.

What To Talk About In Therapy

Remember, your therapist is a trained professional who is there to help you. Some people feel nervous or shy about opening up at first, but therapy is confidential, so whatever you discuss will stay between you and your therapist.

That being said, here are some talking points that are ideal for a therapy session:

1. Your Current Stressors

Are you currently experiencing any stressful life events? If so, therapy can be a great outlet to discuss these events and how you’re coping with them.

Your therapist can offer support and guidance on how to deal with stress in a healthy way. They can also help you identify any negative thought patterns or behaviors that may be making your stress worse.

2. Ways To Troubleshoot Problems

Do you feel like you’re struggling to cope with a certain issue? Bring it up in therapy! Discussing your problems openly can help you find new perspectives and solutions. A therapist can help you brainstorm different ways to tackle the problem. They can also offer guidance on how to implement these solutions in your day-to-day life.

3. Relationship Patterns

One of the most common things people talk about in therapy is their relationships. This can include romantic relationships, friendships, family dynamics, etc.

Relationships can be a source of great joy or great stress. If you’re struggling in your relationships, therapy can help you gain a deeper understanding of the problem and find ways to improve communication, resolve conflict and create a therapeutic relationship.

4. Hopes And Fears About The Future

Do you have any specific goals or dreams that you want to achieve? Are there any areas of your life that you’re struggling with and need help with?

These two areas of discussion are often intertwined. For example, you may want to achieve a goal but feel like you don’t have the resources or support to do so. In your next session, you can talk about your hopes and dreams for the future, and your therapist can help you develop a plan to make them a reality.

They can also help you work through any fears or anxieties that are holding you back from personal growth. If this is something you’re struggling with, check out this article on goal setting in therapy.

5. A Major Life Transition

Moving to a new city, starting a new job, or going through a divorce are all major life transitions that can be difficult to adjust to.

If you’re struggling with a recent transition, therapy can help you process your emotions and develop a plan to cope with the change. Your therapist can also offer support and guidance if you feel lost or uncertain about your new situation.

6. Creative Endeavors

If you’re feeling stuck creatively, therapy can help jumpstart your creative process. Brainstorming with your therapist can help you generate new ideas and find ways to express yourself.

Both you and your therapist can explore what may be holding you back from being creative. This can help you gain insight and develop a plan to overcome these obstacles.

7. Your Mental And Physical Health

If you’re struggling with a mental health issue such as anxiety or depression, therapy can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

If you’re also dealing with a physical health issue, your therapist can help you develop coping mechanisms to deal with the pain or stress. They can also offer guidance on how to make lifestyle changes that will improve your physical health.

For example, if you’re struggling with chronic pain, your therapist may suggest yoga or meditation as a way to cope with the pain and reduce stress levels. If you’re trying to quit smoking, your therapist can offer support and resources to help you make the transition.

How To Find A Good Therapist

If you’re interested in finding a therapist, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, it’s important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with. This means finding someone who you feel safe talking to and who you feel understands your needs.

It’s also important to find a therapist that specializes in the areas that you’re struggling with. For example, if you’re struggling with anxiety, look for a therapist who specializes in treating anxiety disorders.

Finally, make sure to ask about the therapist’s credentials and experience. You can also read reviews from other patients to get an idea of what the therapist is like.

Note: With the advent of technology, there are now many virtual therapy options available. Virtual therapy is a great option if you’re unable to see a therapist in person or if you’re looking for more flexibility in your schedule.

If you’re interested in this option, make sure to still do your research to find a reputable and licensed therapist.

Final Thoughts

Talk therapy provides a safe space to discuss whatever is on your mind. If you’re not sure what to talk about during your therapy time, start with something small and see where the conversation takes you. Trust us, you’ll be surprised at how therapeutic talking can be.

If you’re still feeling unsure about what to talk about in therapy, consider reaching out to a therapist for a free consultation. This is a great way to get a feel for the therapy process and see if it’s right for you.

Don’t forget, your therapist is here to help you- so don’t be afraid to ask for help! What are your thoughts on therapy? Have you ever gone to therapy before? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below!