A Therapist's Perspective

I love what I do. There is no denying it. I cannot imagine doing anything else.

Being able to relate to a person, gain their trust (and keep it), to share a part of yourself while not allowing the time to become about you is a finer line than most people would imagine. The relationship that you build with each individual client is the foundation of therapy.

Often, I read articles and information that are centered around a client’s viewpoint, but I rarely read about the therapist’s perspective...despite the fact that I’ve had clients ask “What are you thinking about?” during our session on more than one occasion.

So I thought I would share a little bit of what I’m thinking about while you, the client, are in my care…

I am actively listening to your words and feelings while looking for a larger, perhaps more prevailing thought or feeling. I am watching your body language each time you speak about a specific topic or person.  I am gauging how much I can challenge your thoughts without shutting you down. I am also noticing if you are actively avoiding a topic (which happens more than you might think).

I feel your frustration when you have a setback as you try to make positive steps toward your goals. I sense your annoyance when I am pushing you a little harder than you would like. I can feel your anger when I don’t tell you what you want to hear. When you share your pain and tears, I sometimes cry with you.

I also genuinely celebrate your victories. I cheer when you reach a goal or when you tell me that you had the difficult conversation that you have been avoiding.  I feel happiness when there is a new clarity in your eyes and a more confident tone in your voice.

I feel it all right along with you.

It’s a bittersweet journey I take with each and every client...and it’s an amazing experience. What you may not realize is how each and every person, in their own way, has inspired me to make changes in my life. People have often provided me with knowledge, insight and power that I didn’t know I had.

My work can leave me feeling both humbled and empowered in a single moment. How cool is that?

Good health to you and yours,

Amy