How to make effective 'here and now' comments in therapy (with Marie Vakakis)

Bron and Marie chat about the comments that therapists make when they want to talk about what's happening right here and now in the therapy room -- you might know them as 'here and now' comments, process comments, or immediacy comments. They can be tricky to use and master, particularly early in our career! Marie takes us through some ways to build confidence in making these comments, and Bron talks about how she started small when trying to increase her use of 'here and now' comments in therapy. Marie always offers such gentle and practical guidance, so I know you'll love this episode! Thanks to listener Jade for inspiring this episode 🥰 - we love hearing topic ideas from listeners!

Guest: Marie Vakakis, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (MHSW), and Family & Couples Therapist at The Therapy Hub

LINKS

• Loved this episode? You might like to listen to other Mental Work episodes with Marie! Check them out here.
• This Complex Life - Marie's podcast where she delves into the messiness of wellbeing and relationships.

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the Australian podcast for mental health workers about working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by Bronwyn Milkins.

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CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides information and entertainment content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or participant does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated service or organisation. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honor the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on Whadjuk Noongar land in Boorloo.

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