When do you schedule therapy?

Are you looking to start therapy, but unsure where to start? Have you ever considered that WHEN you go to therapy matters? “When” meaning the time of day, day of the week, or part of the month. Therapy is more than time in session. Therapy can leave you energized or exhausted. Depending on when, you could show up to therapy energized or exhausted.  

With routine our bodies and mind can prepare, because we know what Is coming next. Without thinking our thoughts can begin to shift. For instance, if therapy is on Monday, I might find myself reflecting or searching for topics over the weekend. If therapy is after work, I might unconsciously practice breathing during the commute home. Sound helpful? Perhaps consider when you schedule therapy.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when creating your therapy schedule:

What type of schedule do you have?

• RIGID: Consider a consistent day AND time.

• My schedule is created weeks in advance.

• I always have the same days off.

• I wake up at the same time most days.

• I like knowing what to expect each day.

• Structure helps me.

• VARIED: Consider a go-to day OR time.

• My work schedule changes each week.

• My schedule depends on the weather, my kid’s schedule, something outside of my control.

• My sleep schedule is erratic.

• I make plans last minute.

• Too much structure stresses me out.

DAY OF WEEK:

• What days are most stressful?

• When is there calm?

• Do I dread certain days? Sunday scaries? Wednesday slump?

• Do I need support during certain times of month? Menstrual cycle? Custody of kids? Deadlines at work?

• When is payday?

TIME OF DAY:

• MORNING

• Am I a morning owl or do I struggle to think clearly for the first few hours?

• Do I want to prepare before things happen?

• Does having plans motivate me to get out of bed? Get dressed? Take a shower?

• AFTERNOON

• When do I really wake up?

• After an argument or difficult conversation, how much time do I need to decompress?

• Do I need a midday nap or inspiration?

• Could I resume my day after crying in therapy?

• NIGHT

• Do I have the energy to talk at the end of a long day?

• Do I like to debrief after events?

• Do I struggle to fall asleep? Is it hard to turn off my brain?

Before scheduling, consider the timing. It can help you find a therapist. Timing could also help you get the most out of your therapy sessions. Click here to find your best fit at Key Therapy Wellness