Our counselors provide therapy in Grand Prairie, TX

My go-to approach for individual therapy is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I find the best benefit in CBT because it quickly resolves negative thoughts that are often the primary cause of anxiety and depression. It is also easily intertwined into other therapy models as needed.

I teach the following tools in individual therapy:

• Play the script until the end - Treats fear and anxiety; reflects on the worst-case scenario
• Unraveling cognitive distortions - Identifying faulty thinking
• Progressive muscle relaxation - Calming; mindfulness
• Cognitive restructuring - Exploring causes of faulty thinking
• Interoceptive exposure - Treats panic and anxiety; purposeful exposure to sensations of panic; instills understanding that sensations are not dangerous
• Exposure and response intervention - Purposefully exposing self to trigger and mindfully controlling the response

I know a client is making meaningful progress in individual therapy when I ask the client about his/her own perceptions of progress. A therapist can sometimes see changes, but if the client isn't aware of these, that isn't real progress.

Clients can supplement their time in individual therapy with additional exercises such as homework assigned by the therapist, practicing mindfulness, maintaining a gratitude journal, practicing mindfulness meditation and breathing, exercising, and maintaining healthy eating and sleep habits.

To prepare for your first individual therapy session, you can:

• Learn about the type of therapy you will be receiving.
• Prepare questions to ask your therapist.
• Be honest during your first therapy session.
• Set realistic goals for therapy.
• Come to your first therapy session with an open mind.