Therapists are also a creative lot and have their own individual styles. Many incorporate techniques from counselling, psychology and other fields. Some use more tools and techniques and specific exercises. Some will teach particular skills for anger management, anxiety control, alleviation of depression, communication, conflict resolution etc. Some will suggest books and others suggest homework exercises. Some will do formal screening or assessments. Some have particular training or backgrounds in particular approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Gestalt, Hakomi, Mindfulness, Narrative therapy etc.
Likewise people are vary enormously. Some like a lot of structure and are keen for techniques, homework and exercises. Others really just want a space to talk and reflect. You can of course talk to your therapist about any of this at any stage of your therapy.