Yes, psychotherapists often use phrases like "tell me more" and "how do you feel" during therapy sessions. These types of open-ended questions are common in various therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic therapy, person-centered therapy, and some cognitive-behavioral therapies.
The use of "tell me more" encourages clients to elaborate on their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, which can help the therapist gain a deeper understanding of the client's concerns and issues. By providing more information, clients can also gain insights into their own thoughts and emotions, promoting self-awareness and self-reflection.
As for "how do you feel," this question is a fundamental part of exploring emotions and emotional experiences during therapy. Emotions play a significant role in shaping our behavior and thoughts, and discussing feelings can be essential for understanding patterns and triggers that might be contributing to the client's challenges.
The effectiveness of these types of questions depends on the individual client and the therapeutic relationship. For some clients, these open-ended questions can be immensely beneficial as they facilitate exploration and self-expression, helping them gain clarity and find solutions. For others, particularly those who may have difficulty expressing their emotions, these questions might take time to get used to, but they can still be valuable once trust is established with the therapist.
However, it's important to note that effective therapy involves more than just asking open-ended questions. Skilled psychotherapists also actively listen, empathize, validate, and offer insights or feedback when appropriate. Therapists tailor their approach to the specific needs of each client and may use various techniques to facilitate growth and healing.
Ultimately, the success of therapy depends on the therapeutic alliance and the willingness of the client to engage in the therapeutic process. Open-ended questions are one tool among many that psychotherapists use to foster understanding and positive change in their clients.