Embracing Change — Exploring the Theory of Change in Therapy

Shawnette Thompson MSW, RSW from Talk2Me Therapy

When clients first meet with me, one of the key topics we prioritize is the theory of change in therapy. It’s fascinating to dive into why change can feel daunting, even when seeking it through therapy. Over the years, my clients have shared profound insights rooted in their personal beliefs and experiences, shedding light on the complexities of change.

The Comfort of the Known vs. The Challenge of Change

Some clients express finding comfort in what they know, even if they’re unhappy with their current situation. It’s like sticking to a familiar routine for a sense of safety, despite their dissatisfaction. On the other hand, some clients become frustrated because their efforts to change seem to lead them back to square one, leaving them feeling even worse than before.

Personal Growth Through Professional Hurdles

I can relate to this frustration based on my own experiences from when I started learning how to conduct therapy. I would spend a lot of time acquiring new skills and techniques, but would often missed opportunities to apply them in real-time, causing me to revert back to more basic approaches. It took a ton of self-compassion and time to integrate these new ways of working with clients into my practice. Drawing from those experiences, I am not only inspired by the growth that comes from overcoming these challenges, but I am also here with you on this rollercoaster ride we call change!

Change as a Core Theme in Our Therapeutic Work

During initial sessions, I always explore personal understandings of change and continue to revisit it as a recurring theme throughout our journey together. It’s essential to acknowledge that change is a complex process. Our brains are wired to follow familiar patterns that we’ve developed throughout our lives, making it feel like going against the grain when we introduce something new and ask our brains to behave differently. So, it’s completely normal for our brains to go back to familiar behaviours.

Neuroscience and Change: The Role of Neuroplasticity

The theory of change in psychotherapy is deeply rooted in neuroscience and our understanding of how the brain works. Neuroplasticity, as explained by Cozolino (2020), highlights that our brains are constantly changing and adapting based on our experiences and behaviours. This means that throughout our lives, our brains have the ability to reorganize themselves by forming new connections.

The Therapeutic Relationship: A Catalyst for Change

The therapeutic relationship that develops between us also plays a vital role in facilitating change. Our strong and trusting relationship provides a safe space for you to explore your history, thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and bodily sensations. In therapy, the theory of change suggests that by trying out new behaviours and experiences, you can create new pathways in your brain. These new pathways can over time replace old, unhelpful ways of thinking, behaving and relating. However, it’s important to acknowledge that change isn’t a linear journey. It takes time and effort to make lasting changes, and setbacks are a normal part of the process. By embracing motivation and fostering self-awareness, you gain the tools to actively make changes in your life!

Motivation and Self-Awareness: Keys to Lasting Change

Motivation, self-awareness, and the therapeutic relationship are other important factors in the theory of change. Motivation is key because you need to be willing and committed to making changes in your life. Self-awareness is crucial too, as it allows us to recognize our patterns and triggers, empowering us to consciously choose to change them.

While change may not follow a linear path and setbacks are part of the process, the benefits are significant. A therapist, I’m here to offer support, guidance, and feedback to help you navigate the change process.

The theory of change in psychotherapy is all about understanding neuroplasticity and how our brains can rewire themselves through new experiences and behaviors. Change is a complex journey that requires motivation, self-awareness, and a strong therapeutic relationship. By recognizing, understanding, and correcting old patterns, we can create lasting change in our lives.

Next Steps in Your Journey of Change

So, let’s embrace the challenge of change and begin this transformative journey together!

Lookout for our next blog to learn the 6 steps that you can follow to begin working towards making change in your life.

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References:

Cozolino, L. (2017). The Neuroscience of Psychotherapy: Healing the Social Brain (3rd ed.). W. W. Norton & Company Inc.

Cozolino, L. (2020). The Pocket Guide to Neuroscience for Clinicians. W.W. Norton & Company Inc.

Siegel, D. J. (2020). The Developing Mind: How Relationships and the Brain Interact to Shape Who We Are (2nd ed.). Guilford Publications.