What Makes Therapy Work?
What Makes Therapy Work?
What Makes Therapy Work?
Beyond techniques or tools, therapy works best when it feels safe, real, and human.
Beyond techniques or tools, therapy works best when it feels safe, real, and human.
Beyond techniques or tools, therapy works best when it feels safe, real, and human.
September 25, 2025
September 25, 2025
September 25, 2025
More than just techniques.
You may be wondering how to get the most out of your experience in therapy. While specific results can never be guaranteed due to the complex nature of concerns we bring to therapy, there are a few considerations to make your time more impactful. Beyond techniques or tools, therapy works best when it feels safe, real, and human.
The power of the relationship.
The single most important contributing factor to a successful therapy experience is the therapeutic relationship. The relationship you have with your therapist will likely be unlike any other relationship in your life. In order for you to address the concerns you are bringing to therapy, you must feel comfortable enough with your therapist to divulge some of your innermost thoughts You may find yourself sharing things you have never before uttered aloud. Don't worry- none of this is expected up front! However, you should feel like your therapist is a safe person to share these things with and can start developing this rapport over the first few sessions. Your ideal therapist should provide you the space and comfort to open up, as well as being able to assist you in pointing out patterns or challenging unhelpful thinking patterns.
“It’s not the method that heals — it’s the relationship that makes the method work.”
Readiness to change.
Aside from the therapeutic relationship, the level of motivation you bring to session is the next major factor in your success. Unfortunately, simply showing up to sessions each week may not be enough to see changes in your life. You will have to implement what we discuss in therapy outside of our sessions in order to see change occur. Change may feel difficult at first, but you will be rewarded with different outcomes. Nothing changes if nothing changes!
The role of trust and consistency.
Trust takes time to build, and so does change. Regular sessions create a rhythm where you can track progress, revisit old patterns, and keep moving forward even when things feel slow. Consistency builds momentum, and momentum helps you carry what you learn in therapy into the rest of your life.
Bringing it together.
So, what makes therapy work? It’s the combination of a safe, respectful relationship, a willingness to change, and the steady rhythm of showing up for the work. Techniques matter, but they come alive when there’s trust, openness, and genuine human connection.
More than just techniques.
You may be wondering how to get the most out of your experience in therapy. While specific results can never be guaranteed due to the complex nature of concerns we bring to therapy, there are a few considerations to make your time more impactful. Beyond techniques or tools, therapy works best when it feels safe, real, and human.
The power of the relationship.
The single most important contributing factor to a successful therapy experience is the therapeutic relationship. The relationship you have with your therapist will likely be unlike any other relationship in your life. In order for you to address the concerns you are bringing to therapy, you must feel comfortable enough with your therapist to divulge some of your innermost thoughts You may find yourself sharing things you have never before uttered aloud. Don't worry- none of this is expected up front! However, you should feel like your therapist is a safe person to share these things with and can start developing this rapport over the first few sessions. Your ideal therapist should provide you the space and comfort to open up, as well as being able to assist you in pointing out patterns or challenging unhelpful thinking patterns.
“It’s not the method that heals — it’s the relationship that makes the method work.”
Readiness to change.
Aside from the therapeutic relationship, the level of motivation you bring to session is the next major factor in your success. Unfortunately, simply showing up to sessions each week may not be enough to see changes in your life. You will have to implement what we discuss in therapy outside of our sessions in order to see change occur. Change may feel difficult at first, but you will be rewarded with different outcomes. Nothing changes if nothing changes!
The role of trust and consistency.
Trust takes time to build, and so does change. Regular sessions create a rhythm where you can track progress, revisit old patterns, and keep moving forward even when things feel slow. Consistency builds momentum, and momentum helps you carry what you learn in therapy into the rest of your life.
Bringing it together.
So, what makes therapy work? It’s the combination of a safe, respectful relationship, a willingness to change, and the steady rhythm of showing up for the work. Techniques matter, but they come alive when there’s trust, openness, and genuine human connection.
More than just techniques.
You may be wondering how to get the most out of your experience in therapy. While specific results can never be guaranteed due to the complex nature of concerns we bring to therapy, there are a few considerations to make your time more impactful. Beyond techniques or tools, therapy works best when it feels safe, real, and human.
The power of the relationship.
The single most important contributing factor to a successful therapy experience is the therapeutic relationship. The relationship you have with your therapist will likely be unlike any other relationship in your life. In order for you to address the concerns you are bringing to therapy, you must feel comfortable enough with your therapist to divulge some of your innermost thoughts You may find yourself sharing things you have never before uttered aloud. Don't worry- none of this is expected up front! However, you should feel like your therapist is a safe person to share these things with and can start developing this rapport over the first few sessions. Your ideal therapist should provide you the space and comfort to open up, as well as being able to assist you in pointing out patterns or challenging unhelpful thinking patterns.
“It’s not the method that heals — it’s the relationship that makes the method work.”
Readiness to change.
Aside from the therapeutic relationship, the level of motivation you bring to session is the next major factor in your success. Unfortunately, simply showing up to sessions each week may not be enough to see changes in your life. You will have to implement what we discuss in therapy outside of our sessions in order to see change occur. Change may feel difficult at first, but you will be rewarded with different outcomes. Nothing changes if nothing changes!
The role of trust and consistency.
Trust takes time to build, and so does change. Regular sessions create a rhythm where you can track progress, revisit old patterns, and keep moving forward even when things feel slow. Consistency builds momentum, and momentum helps you carry what you learn in therapy into the rest of your life.
Bringing it together.
So, what makes therapy work? It’s the combination of a safe, respectful relationship, a willingness to change, and the steady rhythm of showing up for the work. Techniques matter, but they come alive when there’s trust, openness, and genuine human connection.
— Kristen Mercadante, Therapist & Founder of In Bloom
— Kristen Mercadante, Therapist & Founder of In Bloom
— Kristen Mercadante, Therapist & Founder of In Bloom
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Taking a break isn’t failure — it’s part of the process. Here’s how to slow down with kindness.
In a world that rarely slows down, it’s easy to feel like you're constantly running to keep up. The pressure to stay productive, connected, and “on” can leave little room for rest or reflection—and over time, that can lead to chronic anxiety or emotional exhaustion.
In a world that rarely slows down, it’s easy to feel like you're constantly running to keep up. The pressure to stay productive, connected, and “on” can leave little room for rest or reflection—and over time, that can lead to chronic anxiety or emotional exhaustion.
In a world that rarely slows down, it’s easy to feel like you're constantly running to keep up. The pressure to stay productive, connected, and “on” can leave little room for rest or reflection—and over time, that can lead to chronic anxiety or emotional exhaustion.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be helpful if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply want support in navigating life’s challenges. Many people come to therapy when they’re experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or major life transitions, but you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit. If you’re curious about understanding yourself better, improving your well-being, or building healthier patterns, therapy may be a great fit. The best way to know is to start with a session and see how it feels for you.
What can I expect from the first session?
What can I expect from the first session?
The first session is a gentle starting point. You’ll talk with your therapist about what brings you here, what you’re hoping for, and what feels comfortable for you right now.
Do you offer both online and in-person sessions?
Do you offer both online and in-person sessions?
All sessions are held online through a face-to-face telehealth platform which you can access from the comfort of home or any private space. We offer flexible options to meet you where you are.
How often should I come to therapy?
How often should I come to therapy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people come weekly, others bi-weekly or monthly. You and your therapist will decide what feels right based on your needs and pace.
Is everything I share kept private?
Is everything I share kept private?
Yes. Your sessions are completely confidential, except in very rare cases related to safety. Your privacy is always a priority.
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
That’s okay. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Sometimes just showing up is the most important first step — and your therapist will guide you from there.
Do you accept insurance?
Do you accept insurance?
We do not accept insurance and are entirely private pay. We believe every client deserves a confidential, personalized treatment plan designed around their unique needs. This approach gives us the flexibility to meet as often or as little as you’d like, while keeping your information private and ensuring decisions are made solely based on what’s best for you, not dictated by outside requirements.
Who do you work with?
Who do you work with?
In Bloom Counseling works with adults in Florida and Connecticut. We specialize in working with those who consider themselves high achievers, executive level employees, or are functioning in high stress positions and are experiencing burnout. We also provide clinical supervision for registered mental health counseling interns in Florida.
What makes In Bloom different from other/traditional therapy?
What makes In Bloom different from other/traditional therapy?
In Bloom Counseling is built for high achievers. We specialize in anxiety, depression, burnout, and boundary challenges often faced by leaders. Using proven approaches like EMDR, we help you reset, restore balance, and thrive.
What outcomes can I expect?
What outcomes can I expect?
Results vary and are dependent on individual goals, but generally people report reduced depression and anxiety levels along with higher levels of personal understanding and emotion regulation. It’s important to remember that therapy isn’t a magic pill and requires your active participation in and outside of session. Nothing changes if nothing changes!
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be helpful if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply want support in navigating life’s challenges. Many people come to therapy when they’re experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or major life transitions, but you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit. If you’re curious about understanding yourself better, improving your well-being, or building healthier patterns, therapy may be a great fit. The best way to know is to start with a session and see how it feels for you.
What can I expect from the first session?
What can I expect from the first session?
The first session is a gentle starting point. You’ll talk with your therapist about what brings you here, what you’re hoping for, and what feels comfortable for you right now.
Do you offer both online and in-person sessions?
Do you offer both online and in-person sessions?
All sessions are held online through a face-to-face telehealth platform which you can access from the comfort of home or any private space. We offer flexible options to meet you where you are.
How often should I come to therapy?
How often should I come to therapy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people come weekly, others bi-weekly or monthly. You and your therapist will decide what feels right based on your needs and pace.
Is everything I share kept private?
Is everything I share kept private?
Yes. Your sessions are completely confidential, except in very rare cases related to safety. Your privacy is always a priority.
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
That’s okay. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Sometimes just showing up is the most important first step — and your therapist will guide you from there.
Do you accept insurance?
Do you accept insurance?
We do not accept insurance and are entirely private pay. We believe every client deserves a confidential, personalized treatment plan designed around their unique needs. This approach gives us the flexibility to meet as often or as little as you’d like, while keeping your information private and ensuring decisions are made solely based on what’s best for you, not dictated by outside requirements.
Who do you work with?
Who do you work with?
In Bloom Counseling works with adults in Florida and Connecticut. We specialize in working with those who consider themselves high achievers, executive level employees, or are functioning in high stress positions and are experiencing burnout. We also provide clinical supervision for registered mental health counseling interns in Florida.
What makes In Bloom different from other/traditional therapy?
What makes In Bloom different from other/traditional therapy?
In Bloom Counseling is built for high achievers. We specialize in anxiety, depression, burnout, and boundary challenges often faced by leaders. Using proven approaches like EMDR, we help you reset, restore balance, and thrive.
What outcomes can I expect?
What outcomes can I expect?
Results vary and are dependent on individual goals, but generally people report reduced depression and anxiety levels along with higher levels of personal understanding and emotion regulation. It’s important to remember that therapy isn’t a magic pill and requires your active participation in and outside of session. Nothing changes if nothing changes!
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message we’ll respond with care and clarity.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be helpful if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply want support in navigating life’s challenges. Many people come to therapy when they’re experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or major life transitions, but you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit. If you’re curious about understanding yourself better, improving your well-being, or building healthier patterns, therapy may be a great fit. The best way to know is to start with a session and see how it feels for you.
What can I expect from the first session?
What can I expect from the first session?
The first session is a gentle starting point. You’ll talk with your therapist about what brings you here, what you’re hoping for, and what feels comfortable for you right now.
Do you offer both online and in-person sessions?
Do you offer both online and in-person sessions?
All sessions are held online through a face-to-face telehealth platform which you can access from the comfort of home or any private space. We offer flexible options to meet you where you are.
How often should I come to therapy?
How often should I come to therapy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some people come weekly, others bi-weekly or monthly. You and your therapist will decide what feels right based on your needs and pace.
Is everything I share kept private?
Is everything I share kept private?
Yes. Your sessions are completely confidential, except in very rare cases related to safety. Your privacy is always a priority.
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
That’s okay. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Sometimes just showing up is the most important first step — and your therapist will guide you from there.
Do you accept insurance?
Do you accept insurance?
We do not accept insurance and are entirely private pay. We believe every client deserves a confidential, personalized treatment plan designed around their unique needs. This approach gives us the flexibility to meet as often or as little as you’d like, while keeping your information private and ensuring decisions are made solely based on what’s best for you, not dictated by outside requirements.
Who do you work with?
Who do you work with?
In Bloom Counseling works with adults in Florida and Connecticut. We specialize in working with those who consider themselves high achievers, executive level employees, or are functioning in high stress positions and are experiencing burnout. We also provide clinical supervision for registered mental health counseling interns in Florida.
What makes In Bloom different from other/traditional therapy?
What makes In Bloom different from other/traditional therapy?
In Bloom Counseling is built for high achievers. We specialize in anxiety, depression, burnout, and boundary challenges often faced by leaders. Using proven approaches like EMDR, we help you reset, restore balance, and thrive.
What outcomes can I expect?
What outcomes can I expect?
Results vary and are dependent on individual goals, but generally people report reduced depression and anxiety levels along with higher levels of personal understanding and emotion regulation. It’s important to remember that therapy isn’t a magic pill and requires your active participation in and outside of session. Nothing changes if nothing changes!