DiscoverInside Social WorkWhat Just Happened? How to Use ‘Here and Now’ Comments in Therapy
What Just Happened? How to Use ‘Here and Now’ Comments in Therapy

What Just Happened? How to Use ‘Here and Now’ Comments in Therapy

Update: 2025-08-19
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When you’re in a therapy session and something happens right in the moment,  a shift in body language, a sudden silence, a flicker of emotion,  naming it can change everything.

In this episode of Inside Social Work, I’m joined by Dr Bronwyn Milkins from the Mental Work Podcast to talk about using ‘here and now’ comments to deepen connection and insight in the room. We explore why they work, when to use them, and how to navigate the risks.

We discuss:

  • What ‘here and now’ comments are and why they matter
  • How they can build safety and trust in therapy
  • Practical ways to notice and name what’s happening
  • The difference between curiosity and confrontation
  • How to handle moments when it lands badly
  • Why slowing down is often the most powerful thing you can do

Whether you’re new to therapy or an experienced practitioner, this conversation offers practical tools to bring more presence, attunement, and awareness into your work.

Contact Dr Bronwyn Milkins @ mentalworkpodcast@gmail.com

Resources:


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Mentioned in this episode:

5 Days to Career Clarity in Social Work

Reflect, plan, and take your next step with confidence.
Feeling stuck or unsure about your next move?

https://mailchi.mp/marievakakis/days-to-career-clarity-in-social-work

5 Days to Career Clarity in Social Work

Reflect, plan, and take your next step with confidence.
Feeling stuck or unsure about your next move?

https://mailchi.mp/marievakakis/days-to-career-clarity-in-social-work

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What Just Happened? How to Use ‘Here and Now’ Comments in Therapy

What Just Happened? How to Use ‘Here and Now’ Comments in Therapy