by A Free, Reflective Tool for Clients and Clinicians
Therapy is most effective when it’s tailored to the unique needs, boundaries, and preferences of the individual. That’s why we’ve created the “How I Work In Therapy” Worksheet—a compassionate, easy-to-use guide to help clients and therapists start on the same page from day one.
This free worksheet is a conversation starter, a reflection tool, and a gateway to trust and collaboration. Whether you’re a clinician setting the tone for a new relationship or a client hoping to feel more in control of your therapy experience, this resource is designed for you.
🧠 What the Worksheet Covers
The “How I Work In Therapy” worksheet helps users reflect on what makes them feel supported, safe, and empowered in therapy. It includes sections that explore:
- What you want most from your therapist
(Support, structure, coping tools, cultural understanding, and more) - Your communication style
(Whether you’re reflective, talk-it-out, quiet-at-first, or vary by day) - Personal boundaries and discussion preferences
(What topics to avoid and how to create a safe space) - Hopes and goals for therapy
(What success would look like, what skills you want to build) - Concerns and fears about therapy
(Barriers from past experiences or worries you’re carrying into sessions)
Each section is written in calm, inclusive language—free of clinical jargon—and provides plenty of space for honest reflection.
💬 Why This Worksheet Matters
Many people struggle to express what they want from therapy. They may not even realize they can ask for a certain tone, pace, or level of structure. This worksheet:
- Encourages agency from the start
- Gives therapists valuable insight into client preferences
- Helps prevent misunderstandings and mismatched expectations
- Builds trust by centering the client’s comfort and goals
- Supports trauma-informed and culturally aware practice
When a client understands how they work in therapy, they’re more likely to stay engaged and make meaningful progress.
🧰 For Clients and Clinicians
This free tool is ideal for:
- Intake sessions and early rapport-building
- Clients who feel anxious, uncertain, or disconnected from therapy
- Supporting collaborative care in both individual and group settings
- Helping clinicians adjust their style to meet client needs
It can be filled out in advance, in session, or at any point during the therapy process when reflection is needed.
🖨️ Free to Download and Use
The “How I Work In Therapy” Worksheet is now available as a free PDF. It’s printable, easy to share, and ideal for building a strong foundation in your therapeutic work.
Whether you’re a clinician who wants to offer clients more voice—or a client looking to feel seen and understood—this worksheet is a powerful step toward a better therapy experience.
Take a few moments. Reflect honestly.
Therapy works better when it works for you.
