Therapy is Fulfilling?
Reflecting back on the summer we had this (extremely fast-moving) year.
I had the honor of traveling to Tennessee to see all of my clients in-person!
Many reactions to this information were shock.
“You drove where? Just to see clients? And you don’t even live there anymore?”
It had me thinking.
Why are people so surprised that I was so excited to drive the six hours to Tennessee, book a place to stay, and hold therapy sessions in-person?
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I take my position very seriously as a therapist. Someone puts the effort and energy to fit me into their busy schedule each week, so we can share the room (physical or virtual) together to process their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, recent events, past traumas, and more.
I have the privilege of working with some of these wonderful humans for years. So, of course I was giddy with excitement to be able to physically share a space with them again after two years.
Telehealth has been a beautiful thing that was incorporated mainly after the shut down after COVID-19.
However, sitting with my clients in-person is something I hold very near and dear to my heart. If I have the opportunity…I am going to take it.
Not only is therapy (hopefully) fulfilling to clients. Therapy (if you have the right therapist) is also fulfilling to us!
I understand that not everyone has a good experience in therapy. That is totally valid.
If you are reading this, and you are one of those people…find a new therapist and try again. I promise, the ones who care are out there.
As a therapist, I tell my clients that I am quite picky about who I will see for my own therapy. I will know within the first four visits if it is a good fit. If it is not, I will unapologetically find another option.
Life is too short for mediocre therapy.
Now, be sure to reflect before you make the switch. Could it be your own apprehension? Or is it the therapeutic relationship? Am I holding back vulnerability? Or do we just not mesh well?
Interested in processing more? Wanting to know how to even get started?
Start Journaling. Identify what would even be worthwhile discussing in therapy. Make a list in the note-section of your phone. When something comes to mind, note it down.
Ask emotionally-safe people who they know for a therapist. You’d be surprised how many people go to therapy, or if they know someone who could provide services. Your doctor may also know some options. Do your research. Check their websites.
Just schedule the appointment. There will be no “good” time for therapy. Once you start prioritzing it, it’ll just happen.
Need some options for who you could see in your area? Reach out. I may be able to help.
