Dr Barry Slone is a problem-solving, solution-driven psychologist with a private practice in Aliso Viejo, California. Dr. Barry Slone provides psychotherapy and counseling to patients who have a host of psychological disorders and issues, including depression, anxiety, substance addiction, and relationship distress. Therapy can be highly effective in helping people to grapple with these problems, but patients need to follow basic advice to get the most out of the experience.

1. By Barry Slone

2.  Dr Barry Slone is a problem-solving,
solution-driven psychologist with a private
practice in Aliso Viejo, California. Dr. Barry
Slone provides psychotherapy and counseling
to patients who have a host of psychological
disorders and issues, including depression,
anxiety, substance addiction, and relationship
distress. Therapy can be highly effective in
helping people to grapple with these
problems, but patients need to follow basic
advice to get the most out of the experience.

3.  1. Find a therapist you are comfortable with, and
approach therapy as a partnership. It is important
to feel at ease around your therapist and to be an
active participant in decisions about major
psychological issues and how to deal with them.
2. Be honest and open. Psychotherapy can be of
benefit only if you are prepared to disclose your
thoughts, experiences, and feelings. If you have
reservations about opening up about painful or
embarrassing topics, let the therapist know.
Don't lie or put on a mask about how you are
feeling.

4.  3. Stick to your treatment plan, and don't expect
instant results. The first few sessions of therapy
require patients to begin confronting their
psychological issues and can be painful. It is not
uncommon for people to feel worse during this
early stage or to be frustrated with their apparent
lack of progress. You may lose motivation during
this initial part of therapy, but keep attending
regularly. Skipping sessions will disrupt the
treatment and impede your progress.

5.  4. Do your homework. If your therapist asks
you to prepare for subsequent sessions by
keeping a mood journal, writing down how
you feel or engaging in different activities,
follow through even though you do not feel
like it. While doing this homework can feel
like a chore, it will help you apply what you
are learning in your sessions.