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A helpful therapeutic relationship is about more than a method. Christine, who holds psychotherapy qualifications, explains how to notice what is working and bring feedback into sessions.

Beyond the name of a method

Much of what is written about therapy focuses on techniques and their labels. From the client’s side of the room, though, other qualities often matter more. Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, has qualifications in psychotherapy, and she pays close attention to how the working relationship feels for the person she is seeing.

Useful signs include feeling genuinely listened to, understanding the plan you are following and feeling able to say when something does not seem helpful. If those elements are present, the conversation has a solid foundation.

Feedback is part of the work

You are welcome to bring feedback into any session with Christine. You might explain what you took away from the last meeting, what felt hard to talk about or what you would like to spend more time exploring.

Some people worry that raising a concern will sound like a complaint. In practice, reviewing the working relationship is a normal and valuable part of therapy. It does not need to be saved for the end, and it often makes sessions more focused.

Simple prompts you could use

• Something that stuck with me from last time was…
• I found it difficult when we talked about…
• I would like to spend more time on…

Room for adjustments

If, after some time, the approach does not feel like a good fit, that can be discussed openly too. Christine is willing to talk about adapting the work or about another practitioner or service that might suit you better. Your priorities should remain at the heart of the process, including what you want to understand and how you will know things are shifting.

Your next session

At the Lane Cove clinic, whether you are new to therapy or returning after a break, a first session can include a frank discussion of what makes conversations helpful for you.