Overwatch Counseling PLLC
call us
book online

Therapy

Mental Health located in Abilene, TX

What does Overwatch even mean? 
Yes, overwatch is a military term, not just a video game. Overwatch is when one unit provides cover, security, and surveillance for another advancing unit. Counseling can be the same thing. You are advancing (healing) and I am providing you with cover (to speak freely), security (to never be judged and everything you say is kept in confidence), and surveillance (ok, this one threw me, but lets include advise and tools here).  
What do we do at therapy?
This answer depends on what you need. What brings you to therapy? Sometimes I think that is the hardest question.
Know Your “Why” for Therapy- This is a common first question, “What brings you to therapy?” and so many people freeze up at this moment. Knowing what brings you to therapy can help us create a plan for you that is based on your needs and wants, not mine. You are the driver, I’m the navigator. Make a list of your symptoms, including bothersome thoughts, emotions, behaviors, past experiences, and current situations and stressors. While you don’t have to articulate a detailed list of your concerns and goals, knowing the general reason you are seeking therapy will help you feel ready for the intake session.
Make a List of Topics to Cover
The first visit with any therapist can feel a bit awkward. After all, you are meeting with a stranger to discuss things you might be uncomfortable talking about. Where do you even begin? Rest assured, a therapist is an educated and skilled helper who will gently put you at ease and guide the first session. Still, arriving prepared with what you want to talk about during therapy can reduce anxiety.

Consider including topics such as:

Challenges you are currently facing that you’d like to explore in later sessions (mentioning topics upfront will help the therapist guide future sessions)
Recent changes in yourself or life circumstances that prompted you to seek therapy
Things you have already tried in order to feel better
Observations from family or friends (have they expressed concern about certain behaviors or moods, for example?)
Information about your personal background (your family situation, significant events, etc.)
How long you’ve been experiencing your current difficulties (if you’re bothered by social anxiety, for instance, has this plagued you for years or is it new?)
Review Your Life History & How That May Be Impacting You Now
Having an idea of how your family, life experiences, and personal history has impacted you is a good place to start. Think about what comes to mind when you think about different areas of your life.
Ask yourself:
Are there people you avoid?
Emotions you avoid?
Situations you avoid?
Past circumstances you try not to think about?
What happens at the intake session? 
Having an idea of how your family, life experiences, and personal history has impacted you is a good place to start. Think about what comes to mind when you think about different areas of your life.
Ask yourself:
Are there people you avoid?
Emotions you avoid?
Situations you avoid?
Past circumstances you try not to think about?
What are Therapy Goals?
Also known as patient-driven goals, therapy goals are objectives that are set by the patient and therapist to create specific outcomes and results in therapy. Some therapy goals can be short-term goals, which typically focus on managing mental health issues in the present, or long-term goals that focus on developing healthier coping mechanisms and behaviors for a better quality of life in the future.

SMART Goals

The acronym “SMART” stands for “Specific,” “Measurable,” “Achievable,” “Relevant,” and “Time-Bound.” A good therapist can help you set goals that meet these criteria and align with your needs. Sometimes, breaking down large goals into smaller steps that you tackle individually makes sense.

Specific 

You want to experience less anxiety in group settings.guide future sessions)

Measurable

You’ll actively participate in at least two social gatherings each month. Start by planning these gatherings around the people you’re familiar with, like friends or relatives. You could also use a journal to monitor your progress.

Attainable/
achievable

Together with your therapist, you will assess your goal to make sure it’s realistic.

Relevant

By achieving your goal, you’ll feel more comfortable in social situations. This can improve your life and your overall well-being.

Time-bound

You aim to accomplish your goal within three months.
Overwatch Counseling PLLC
Phone (appointments): 325-455-5010

Medical Websites Powered by TEBRA