When I was in therapy my therapist held me in her arms as long as it took to cry it out, and then she would use her breathing to help me regulate my breathing. I can conjure up the image and feelings if I'm distressed to sooth me, but it's rarely needed, now. When the words were difficult she used a psychodrama technique called doubling, and only a few tears came she would hold my hand and wipe those few tears away. I was always held afterwards. I never felt her actions interrupted my process of crying it out. I needed, and appreciated a shoulder to cry on. The process was ALWAYS soothing.