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The relationship in the room often matters more than the method. Here are qualities worth noticing and how to bring feedback into your sessions.

People often judge psychotherapy by the method on the brochure. From the chair you sit in, though, the experience is shaped far more by the relationship in the room. Knowing what a helpful conversation can feel like gives you a way to notice whether the work suits you.

Qualities worth noticing

• You feel listened to rather than rushed or judged
• You understand, at least roughly, the plan and why it makes sense
• You can say when something is not helpful without fear of upsetting anyone
• Your own priorities guide where the sessions go

Feedback belongs inside the session

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, holds psychotherapy qualifications and welcomes feedback from the clients she sees at the Lane Cove clinic. You might share what you took away from the last session, what felt uncomfortable and what you would like to spend more time on. Reviewing how you are working together is part of the therapy itself, not a complaint to be saved for the end.

Listening to the body as well

From a mind–body perspective, your physical reactions can be useful feedback too. Feeling your shoulders drop as you talk, or noticing your stomach tighten when a topic comes up, are signals worth mentioning. They can help guide the pace and focus of the work.

Keeping the direction clear

Every so often, it helps to revisit what you want to understand, what feels most stubborn and how you would recognise that something has shifted. Ask Christine how you will look back over the sessions together and what support exists if life gets heavier between appointments.

When the fit is not right

Sometimes, despite good intentions, a working relationship is not the right match. Saying so is healthy. Christine can talk through other approaches or services, including support arranged through your GP, so you can find care that feels right for you.