A. Being able to make progress through the counseling relationship is built upon a few factors. First, it helps significantly if you and your counselor are a good match. It’s okay to request someone different if you don’t feel that you are getting what you need after a few sessions. Second, being able to be open with your therapist and expressing yourself in your sessions can be helpful. After all, if there are some missing pieces that the therapist isn’t getting, it may be harder to provide the help or guidance that you are looking for. Finally, your therapist holds the belief that you are the expert on your life. We provide feedback and suggestions, but ultimately, change comes from within you. Being able to make progress in counseling will involve some change—whether in thinking or in actions.