No, therapists do not always start sessions with silence. The way a therapy session begins can vary depending on the therapist's style, the client's preferences, and the therapeutic approach being used. Here are a few common ways therapists might start a session:
Greeting and Check-In: Many therapists will start a session with a warm greeting and a check-in. They may ask how the client is doing, how their week has been, or if there's anything specific they would like to discuss during the session.
Reviewing Previous Session: Some therapists might begin by briefly recapping the topics discussed in the previous session. This helps establish continuity and allows the client to build upon previous insights and discussions.
Open-Ended Questions: Therapists may use open-ended questions to encourage the client to explore their thoughts and feelings. For example, they might ask, "What's been on your mind since our last session?" or "How are you feeling about the challenges we talked about last time?"
Expressing Feelings: Some therapists might share their observations or feelings about how the therapy is progressing. This can create a sense of connection and collaboration.
Mindfulness or Relaxation Exercise: In some cases, therapists might begin a session with a mindfulness or relaxation exercise to help the client center themselves and become more present.
Agenda Setting: Some therapists use agenda setting to allow the client to prioritize what they want to discuss during the session. This ensures that the client's most pressing concerns are addressed.
The way therapists start sessions can be influenced by various factors, such as therapeutic orientation, client preferences, and the therapist's assessment of the client's current needs. The goal is to create a comfortable and supportive environment that allows the client to freely explore their thoughts and emotions during the session. If you have specific preferences for how you'd like the session to begin, feel free to communicate this with your therapist. Open communication about your needs and preferences can enhance the therapeutic process and the therapeutic relationship.