Therapy for Therapists
You know every story you hear is important, but…
You haven’t paid attention to yours in a long time.
You wear so many hats as a busy, working counselor. It’s overwhelming, and you don’t even know which one you wear on your day off.
You’ve tried to turn off your “therapist mode,” but then your friend, relative, co-worker, or SOMEONE calls you to talk because you’re an amazing listener. And let’s face it: You probably feel a bit guilty about setting limits on these things.
You don’t have time for yourself—much less for your family, friends, or significant other. But you (and they) have needs, and you have that reality in the back of your mind every minute of the day. And when the workday is over, and you get home, a whole host of household responsibilities are waiting for you at the door.
“I sure would love to cook my favorite meal tonight!”
Sure, but with what energy? Instead, you just see what’s in the kitchen (if you even eat)… or just sit and watch Netflix, HBO, Showtime, or whatever else that can help you “not think.”
Having a hard time being FULLY present in sessions?
Of course, it’s hard. Face it: You’re burned out.
And when that client doesn’t improve, you can’t help but think it’s you. When your progress stalls against a backdrop of personal and professional fatigue, you can’t help but think, “I’m a fraud.” You then start second-guessing your skills, not giving enough credit to what you know and have worked so hard for.
Impostor Syndrome is real, and you’re not alone!
You know that if you keep going like this, it’ll only get worse. What would you tell your client?
“If you keep doing the same thing, you can expect…”
I know you know how to finish that statement.
Being in therapy as a therapist can ONLY help…
We’ve all been there. I know the struggle. And now, I can say that I’m thankful for having taken steps to focus on my inner world.
Awareness is power, and, as you know very well, it is also relieving.
Becoming aware of what is happening to you will help you connect with your needs. You know it’s been a long time since you took the time to take care of yourself – when was the last time you took a vacation? Or simply a very much needed “mental break”? When was the last time you said no without feeling guilty?
Sometimes we need to unwind and take time to make a mental and emotional inventory. Do YOU need to be heard? Do YOU need to be validated? Do YOU need support? Being fully aware of these needs can help you know how to responsibly “pause these needs” in your sessions to avoid projecting them to your clients. Awareness helps you make responsible choices – you understand and accept what comes with these choices and avoid blaming your environment. Awareness gives you responsibility and the power to make the best choices for yourself.
We’ll focus on self-acceptance and authenticity.
How many times do you feel “obligated” to put a front? And not be true with what you feel and need? Have you struggled to “sustain” your client’s emotions during sessions? That’s an indicator that you’re struggling with authenticity, and there is avoidance to make contact with some emotions. Pretending to be “fine” will just push you to burnout and at risk of losing what’s most important to you.
Through techniques focused on inner contact, such as guided fantasies, you can learn about the relationship with yourself and things that have been neglected. Being authentic can help you stay in touch with your priorities, and this will reflect on your work with clients – it will add more confidence to teach what you know. I can speak for myself, and I can say, “being in therapy helps me be a better therapist.” Think about it… would you sell something you don’t buy yourself?
I will hold your hand and keep you company on your journey of self-discovery.
Let’s work together to focus on your true self and dedicate time to what’s really important to you. Remind yourself that you also need help and support (you know we all do). Being on both ends of the spectrum allows me to connect with therapists on a unique level because my understanding comes from both perspectives. My empathy helps me provide the unconditional support that’s needed.
It’s time to take care of YOU!
You also deserve to be the best version of yourself… and to enjoy the inner peace that comes with that.
Stop judging yourself for needing help. Quit putting more things before what you really need. Give yourself a break and make yourself a priority.
Help is here. There is no better time and space than here and now.
Call me today. Let’s talk about how I can help: (786) 250-5122