The power of a reframe: what does my therapist mean when they say...

...let’s reframe this thought!

In therapy, you’ll often hear the therapist say something along the lines of “let’s reframe this thought.” Reframing anxious and negative thoughts is a skill that can be used everyday and all day. You may even find yourself reframing thoughts without the awareness that you’ve used this skill. Reframing negative thoughts can help increase motivation for tasks, reduce anxiety and stress, increase a desired relationship with yourself, increase self-compassion/ self-love, etc. This skill is effective if we are consistent and patient with ourselves. So, what does it mean when a therapist says, “let’s reframe this thought?” How does one practice this skill outside of sessions? If you are someone who struggles with anxious and negative thoughts, I will encourage you to keep reading!