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A helpful therapy relationship is about more than the method used. Here are the signs to look for and how to bring feedback into your sessions.

When people talk about therapy, they often focus on the name of the method. From the client's side of the room, though, what makes sessions worthwhile is frequently the relationship itself. If you are seeing, or thinking of seeing, a psychotherapist at the Lane Cove clinic, you may find it useful to know what a useful working relationship can feel like.

Signs that a therapy conversation is working for you

• You feel listened to and taken seriously.
• You understand, at least broadly, what you are working on and why.
• You can say when something does not feel helpful without worrying about the response.
• Goals reflect what matters to you rather than a standard template.

None of these depends on a particular school of therapy. They are qualities you can notice from your very first sessions.

Feedback is part of the work

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, holds qualifications in psychotherapy and welcomes feedback as part of each session. You might share:

• what you took away from the last appointment
• anything that felt confusing, uncomfortable or unhelpful
• topics you would like to spend more time on

Reviewing the working relationship is a normal part of therapy, not a complaint that needs saving for the end.

Keeping direction and priorities clear

Over time, it can be useful to revisit what you want to understand and how you would recognise change. Check with Christine how often goals get revisited and which other services could step in if your needs shift.

When a different fit is needed

Sometimes a different practitioner, approach or service is a better match, and saying so is part of a healthy working relationship. Christine can help discuss options, including involving your GP. At any moment of crisis, phone emergency services or a crisis support line.

North Shore clients who want sessions to feel more collaborative can start by bringing one piece of honest feedback to their next appointment with Christine in Lane Cove.