There are many things that you can do to set yourself up for success in therapy. This is especially true when it comes to working through trauma. One of the best things you can do is be intentional about setting goals.
Setting Goals
Creating goals to work toward in your therapy sessions can help you stay focused. Additionally, they may help you notice when you’re making progress. Working through trauma can often feel overwhelming, so setting goals is a great way to keep yourself accountable and be able to celebrate when you reach important milestones.
Examples of Setting Goals
Everyone will have goals that are unique to their journey and therapy process. Below are some examples you can use when setting goals as you work through trauma.
Limiting Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are often a very tangible way to understand the progress that you’re making in therapy. By keeping track of your panic attacks, you can understand the growth you’re seeing in therapy. If you experience panic attacks or other kinds of episodes frequently, consider what reduction you’d like to see. For example, a goal could be going from four panic attacks a week to one panic attack per week.
Therapy Attendance
Going to therapy can be an important part of trauma recovery, so consider setting goals for how often you’d like to attend therapy. Most people go to therapy weekly or a few times a month. However, others in more intensive therapies might go multiple times per week. Decide what’s best for you and aim toward that number for therapy attendance.
Creating Boundaries
Setting boundaries is an excellent goal for those working through trauma, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be challenging. Working with your therapist on setting goals regarding boundaries can be a great way to feel supported. This way, you can make sure that you’re setting healthy guidelines within your relationships.
Find a Therapist When Setting Goals
We hope that these examples have given you a general idea of some possible guidelines that you can set during trauma recovery. If you’re interested in implementing these goals, consider speaking with a therapist. Setting yourself up for success is important and goals can play a large role in that.
There are so many different ways to work through trauma in therapeutic settings. At Avalon Malibu, we have extensive experience helping clients work through trauma, so we’re always here to answer any questions that you may have. We offer a variety of therapeutic options so that there’s something for everyone who comes through our doors. If you need help with recovery, give us a call at (844) 857-5992 to learn more about Avalon Malibu and if it could be the right place for you.Â