Question

Does your therapist tell you they are proud of you? Do they give many verbal affirmations and are they more neutral, seeming to be waiting for you to be proud of yourself? Therapists-is there a reason you wouldn’t offer much praise or accolade as encouragement. I feel discouraged and want her to tell me she is proud of me

Answer 1

In therapy, the dynamics of verbal affirmations, praise, and expressions of pride can vary significantly depending on the therapeutic approach, the therapist's style, and the individual client's needs.

Some therapists may use verbal affirmations and expressions of pride more frequently as a way to provide encouragement and positive reinforcement to their clients. They might openly acknowledge and celebrate clients' progress, efforts, and achievements in therapy.

On the other hand, other therapists may take a more neutral approach, intentionally avoiding excessive praise or accolades. They might do this for a few reasons:

1. Client Empowerment: Some therapists believe that the emphasis should be on empowering the client to recognize and celebrate their own progress and accomplishments. By encouraging clients to feel proud of themselves, they foster self-esteem and self-validation.

2. Client-Centered Approach: Therapists who follow a client-centered approach prioritize the client's self-exploration and growth. They may be more inclined to reflect back the client's feelings and thoughts rather than impose their own judgments or evaluations.

3. Avoiding Dependence: Therapists aim to create a therapeutic relationship that helps clients build their inner resources and coping skills. Providing excessive praise might inadvertently encourage dependency on external validation rather than fostering internal strength and self-reliance.

However, it's important to remember that every therapist is unique, and therapeutic styles can vary widely. Some therapists may incorporate verbal affirmations and expressions of pride when they believe it would be beneficial for the client's therapeutic progress and overall well-being.

If you feel the need for more encouragement or specific feedback, it is essential to communicate your feelings with your therapist openly. They can then discuss their therapeutic approach and work together to ensure that your needs are being met in a way that aligns with your personal preferences and therapeutic goals. Therapeutic relationships are built on trust and collaboration, and open communication is a vital aspect of the process.