Sometimes after very vulnerable and heavy sessions, I sit back and think woah. How is it that I am in this position that someone chooses to confide in me to help them process their deepest wounds and move towards healing? Yes, I went to school and gathered a good working knowledge that expanded my tool set and have worked and volunteered for many agencies that have exposed me to a wide range of needs, but even then, I know I don’t know it all. I know that there’s still a long road ahead of me. One that will require more education, more experience, more self-care. I think because I know I am not the best thing out there, it allows me to grow and be present for those that need me most to be; my clients. The people that have chosen me in the past or currently to be their therapist, teach me so much about resilience, growth, perseverance, mental and emotional strength. They weather the hardest times with such grace. The wild thing is, until we meet, they might not even recognize it. They can be some of their worst critics, when I think they deserve to be their biggest cheerleaders. I always tell myself, how truly rewarding it is to be on my side of table. I have the pleasure and honor of witnessing small and big changes. Hearing laughter. Observing tears of joy and relief. Noticing a brighter affect as they smile to themselves acknowledging their growth. A shift in their heart, because they are finally learning to love themselves. I get to see how such commitment and dedication to self opens the door for a lighter, intentional and meaningful way of living. Ah! What a blessing to have this as my calling. It motivates me to continue expanding myself and my practice, so I can continue to be in the position to be someone’s therapist. And so I say, with a humbled heart, I can’t believe I get to be someone’s therapist and thank you for giving me the opportunity to be your sounding board.
Live mindfully, hopeful and persevere.
Lovingly,
Claudia Stanley, LCSW
Flourish with Hope 