Face-to-face therapy
Non-verbal communication
Non-verbal communication makes up over 70% of our overall communication and often is saying more or even the opposite of what our words are saying. This can be very powerful and insightful for both parties. Clients subconsciously feel safer as all their senses are registering what a safe, supportive relationship feels like so they feel more able to build trust and let go of any fears of being judged that enables them to explore their inner world safe in the knowledge that I am right by their side.
We are also able to use the subtle non-verbal cues to build your self-awareness around triggers that start feelings of stress and anxiety so that you are better able to notice your body’s warnings and learn what you need to feel less anxious and stressed.
Some of my clients find face-to-face therapy is more natural and is in line with how they envisage therapy. There are no distractions, which can help focus the mind and tune into what is going on for you.
Face-to-face counselling
For some, face-to-face therapy is the only safe place they have to talk openly about how they feel and is often the only ‘you time’ in the week – your time out to process all that life is or has been throwing at you.
In this instance, the travel time to and from sessions can be additional breathing space, your time out to slow down and reflect on what is important to you. The journey to sessions gives you a chance to begin to put the world on hold for a while and the journey back is often described as a gentle transitional space.
The time between sessions is often where the real change and benefits of therapy can be felt whether that be online coaching and counselling, walk and talk therapy, or face-to-face therapies. The brain needs time and space to process what has come up during sessions and is making new neural connections as it begins to understand and benefit from the insights gained and learns to adapt to new ways of coping with past and current experiences.