Pre-Session Preparation Checklist for Psychotherapy
Patient Overview
- Main Condition: Relationship Issues
- Primary Focus: Anger Management
- Therapy Technique: Interpersonal Therapy
- Coping Technique: Practicing Self-Compassion
- Current Patient Engagement: Frustrated or Irritated
Pre-Session Checklist
1. Review Previous Notes
- Go through the notes from the last session.
- Identify any unresolved topics discussed.
- Reflect on your feelings and reactions during previous sessions and document any changes.
2. Key Issues to Revisit
- Anger Triggers: Note down specific instances where anger arose in recent relationships.
- Communication Breakdown: Reflect on how you communicated during conflicts. What phrases or behaviors contributed to escalation?
- Interpersonal Relationships: Assess your current relationships. Which are causing the most stress? What dynamics do you want to address?
3. New Assessments
- Self-Reflection Journal: Spend a few minutes writing about recent interactions that evoked frustration.
- Identify Patterns: Look for recurring themes or triggers in your anger.
- Self-Compassion Assessment: Evaluate how often you practice self-compassion in moments of frustration.
4. Preparing Tools/Resources
- Self-Care Plan: Draft a preliminary version of your self-care plan. Include activities that help you de-stress and moments for self-reflection.
- Communication Techniques: List two or three effective communication strategies to experiment with in your personal relationships.
- Self-Compassion Exercises: Identify a couple of exercises or affirmations to practice during the week.
5. Assignment Elements
- Self-Care Plan Development: Outline specific self-care activities to incorporate into your routine.
- e.g., "Spend 30 minutes reading every evening" or "Practice deep breathing exercises."
- Communication Skills Improvement:
- Identify specific skills to work on: active listening, using “I” statements, emotional validation.
- Set a realistic goal to implement these skills in a particular situation before the next session.
6. Additional Considerations
- Identify Support System: List names of friends or family members who can provide support and accountability as you work on these issues.
- Questions for Therapist: Write down any questions or concerns that have emerged since your last session to discuss with your therapist.
Conclusion
Being fully prepared for your session can enhance your therapeutic experience. By addressing the points in this checklist, you’re setting the stage for a productive conversation focused on your relationship issues and the strategies to manage anger effectively. Remember, this is a journey of self-discovery and growth, so be patient and compassionate with yourself.