How a Therapist Prepares for Therapy

2 minutes Written by Aubrey Richardson

Personally, I prioritize growth, healing, and authenticity. I enjoy going to my own virtual therapist every week. As a therapist myself, I wanted to share my own rituals for pre and post-therapy session. Below is my step-by-step ritual:

● I have a morning appointment, so I make sure to eat and have coffee to ensure my brain has the right fuel to engage in difficult work

  • ●  I put on comfortable clothes, make sure my tissues are close,and put on a cup of tea.
  • ●  I intentionally do not wear mascara o rmakeup, because I will probably cry! (If you are surprised that I cry in therapy, please discuss the belief that therapists are not humans in your next session and/or the belief that crying is bad)
  • ●  I organize my thoughts in a secure notes app(I use Obsidian)
  • ●  I turn on Do Not Disturb

    After therapy:

  • ●  I throw away any tissues, clear my space, and pull out my journal to jot

    down any thoughts or insights

  • ●  I take a few minutes to breathe and ground myself
  • ●  I do a short physical take like unload the dishwasher  or fold laundry to 

    allow my brain to reset

  • ●  Then, I feel ready to go about my day!

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Avatar Aubrey Richardson

Written by Aubrey Richardson

Aubrey Richardson is a therapist in Texas who specializes in individual therapy.