10/09/2025
So you notice your therapist check the time and think, “Are they bored? Wishing the session was over?”
The truth?
Not even close. Every glance at that clock has purpose.
Let me break it down for you.
Here’s what’s really going on:
The first 5 minutes:
We’re catching up , chatting about your week, the weather, your dog, whatever’s on your mind!
It seems casual
But we’re actually co-regulating with you.
That small talk helps your nervous system settle, so you can safely go deeper into your work.
The next 15–20 minutes:
This is your deep dive , the part where you unpack what’s been sitting heavy, process what’s still lingering, and move through what’s real.
We’re watching the clock not to rush you, but to protect space for grounding before we move on.
Around the 30/ 40 minute mark:
We start weaving in insight, tools, strategies helping you make meaning, connect dots, and come back to safety if anything got activated.
You might notice a joke, a validating comment or even a small amount of therapist self disclosure to build rapport and help normalize your experience.
It’s all intentional ways to regulate the room.
The final 10 minutes:
We’re scanning for cues, making sure your body feels settled, that nothing heavy is left hanging, and that you leave grounded and supported.
So when your therapist looks at the clock, they’re not counting down to rush you out.
They’re tracking your safety, your process, and your pacing.
Every minute counts. It’s all about you , for you. ~ Ginger 😊
