Therapy pacing challenges often arise from a complex interplay of factors. Therapists may unconsciously rush sessions due to personal anxieties or internal pressure, while clients might push for rapid progress to avoid confronting painful emotions or disengage due to fear. Relational dynamics, such as inauthenticity or unclear boundaries, can further disrupt the natural flow of therapy. Additionally, structural considerations like session length, frequency, and insurance constraints can impact pacing and effectiveness. This course delves into four domains—sensitive topics, therapist and client internal “parts” (thanks, IFS!), relational dynamics, and structural considerations—to help practitioners identify and address pacing concerns. Through interactive discussions and practical teaching, participants will learn to recognize when pacing feels off, understand internal dynamics, implement techniques like reflective listening and compassionate curiosity, and establish time boundaries. By understanding and addressing the roots of pacing challenges, therapists can foster a more effective and empathetic practice.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Identify factors contributing to pacing challenges in therapeutic sessions.
- Apply pacing strategies to support balanced therapeutic progress.
- Describe the impact of therapist and client internal dynamics on the pacing of therapeutic work.
Syllabus:
Introduction
Objective #1: Apply pacing strategies to support balanced therapeutic progress
- Use of reflection, rehearsal, and repair
- Compassionate curiosity
- Structural boundaries
Objective #2: Identify factors contributing to pacing challenges in therapeutic sessions
- Sensitive topics
- Relational dynamics
- Structural time concerns
Objective #3: Describe the impact of therapist and client internal dynamics on the pacing of therapeutic work
- Imposter Syndrome, Confusion, and Performative Stance
- Client resistance, reframed
- Leading with Self-energy (IFS)
Summary/Q&A
Social workers completing this course receive 2 General Skill Building asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 General Skill Building continuing education training.
Instructor: Sarah Czopek, MS, LCPC
Recording Date: December 4, 2025
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 2hrs General continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com