The Therapy Companion Journal: Exploring the Therapeutic Power of Journaling
- Aisha Bettridge, Psychotherapist, BA (Hons), MA.
- Dec 9, 2024
- 4 min read
Something that I frequently discuss with clients embarking on their therapy journey is that achieving the goals or changes they desire for themselves or their lives goes beyond just showing up at therapy sessions. True transformation necessitates developing self-awareness by engaging in self-reflection, and actively implementing the insights gained in therapy into their daily lives.
Some clients may discover that the insights gained during sessions seem to fade away once they step out of the therapy room. Although these insights may linger in the subconscious and eventually resurface for processing, journaling can be a way to be intentional about maximising the benefits of your sessions and make the most out of them.
This post will cover some of the benefits of journaling and introduce the journal that I have specifically designed for the introduction of self-reflection alongside your therapy sessions; The Therapy Companion Journal.

Stress Relief
Transferring stresses onto paper creates the sense of storing them somewhere. This process can act as a cathartic release, preventing thoughts from lingering and spiraling in the mind. When we put our thoughts and emotions into words, we are essentially externalising them, which can create a feeling of distance from the intensity of those feelings. This serves as a way of decluttering our minds, creating the space to gain new perspectives. Consistent practice of this can reduce stress levels. The Therapy Companion Journal encourages you to fill it out both before and after each therapy session helping you to integrate the practice of journaling through habit stacking.
Emotional Exploration
There are numerous obstacles that can make it difficult to connect with our emotions. Sometimes we struggle to find the right words to describe our feelings, but we can often express the impact that they have or where we feel them in our bodies. The Therapy Companion Journal provides an opportunity to become curious about your emotional responses by posing targeted questions and using mind mapping techniques.
Identifying Patterns
Keeping a record of your reflections and reactions to different situations can assist you in recognising recurring patterns. Without awareness of when these patterns emerge we get caught up in them and are unable to change them. Journaling provides us with a continuous record and a reference point to observe and begin to recognise patterns. The Therapy Companion Journal includes review sections every 6 weeks that serve as checkpoints to help you reflect on your journey, progress, and any recurring patterns that require attention.
Self-Reflection
Engaging in self-reflection supports you in delving into the concept of self and what defines your individuality. The Therapy Companion Journal helps you ease into this by not only prompting you to jot down brief notes about different situations or experiences, but by posing follow up questions to deepen the process.
Self-Awareness
Engaging in journaling helps to bring what is in the subconscious to the forefront, enabling us to delve into aspects of ourselves that we typically ignore or brush aside. By embracing this practice, you may begin to recognise and connect with parts of you that may have been previously overlooked or neglected. There is always more to discover about ourselves. The Therapy Companion Journal encourages an open, curious, and exploratory mindset towards self-discovery.
Accountability
Keeping a journal helps you to prioritise self-care, establish objectives, commit to them, allocate time for yourself, and maintain a regular routine. The Therapy Companion Journal provides a platform for reflecting on goals, making adjustments as needed. By filling it out both before and after sessions, it can be used as a meeting with yourself where you check in and begin to sow the seeds that develop into the sense of self-trust.
Creativity
Keeping a journal can enhance your creativity and problem-solving skills. The act of writing or drawing freely can stimulate our imaginations, helping us to think outside the box. By jotting down ideas, inspirations, and reflections, we can cultivate a more creative and innovative mindset. The Therapy Companion Journal also promotes drawing and doodling as a means of self-expression. It is designed to keep you engaged and concentrated in brief intervals, enabling you to explore different methods of capturing your thoughts and emotions.
Taking Action
Most individuals seek out therapy with the goal of making changes in their lives, yet they may feel uncertain about how to start the process. After therapy sessions, some may find it challenging to translate the discussed topics into actionable steps or may not even consider doing so. The Therapy Companion Journal reminds you to consider actionable ways to improve your wellbeing.
Motivation
Beginning is one thing, but continuing is another. Therapy can sometimes feel challenging, yet focusing on your goal can help maintain motivation throughout the process. Occasionally, hearing something rephrased or gaining a brief perspective can be beneficial. The Therapy Companion Journal includes affirmations and quotes to keep in mind as you navigate your day, reminding you to focus on self-compassion and moving forward.
Self-Validation
In times of uncertainty or turmoil, journaling provides a secure space to express ourselves freely and without judgement. The Therapy Companion Journal encourages you to occasionally participate in free writing or brain dumping, inviting you to release your thoughts and emotions by writing without self-censorship or criticism. This initiates the practice of self-validation and acceptance.
Journaling offers a wide range of advantages, including boosting self-awareness, emotional health, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It can truly be a transformative habit with significant impacts on personal growth and development. Why not see what it can do for you?
The Therapy Companion Journal is now available for purchase on Amazon!
Click the link below to learn more and get your copy.

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Disclaimer: Information and opinions in this blog do not constitute as therapy or personalised professional advice. If you feel that you would like personalised support from a qualified Psychotherapist you are welcome to book a free introductory call with me or search for a therapist on online directories such as the Counselling Directory or Psychology Today .
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