Transference and counter-transference
In this complex work we do, we need to be impeccable in our self-awareness and understanding of our own past traumas, our boundaries, our triggers, and any other subconscious baggage that could create transference or countertransference with our clients. We need to be sensitive to what the client is experiencing in the room, and in our therapeutic relationship. In order to do that, our own energy has to be grounded, clear and clean. Clients are coming to see us in a vulnerable state. It is vital that we know how to create a safe and boundaried container in ourselves, in order to be able to provide that for the client.
Our skill set and comfort zone
As you may be aware, our counsellor training programs do not typically require us to do our own therapy. Unless we have pursued our own growth and learning at a deep level, we may encounter clients whose concerns are beyond our skill set and comfort zone. If we do our personal work, clients can sense that we are comfortable to accompany them to those painful places and we may see a clearer path forward for them. Once you do your own inner work, you feel greater ease and self-trust about being present in the room with whatever is showing up for the client.
Imposter syndrome
Many of us begin our profession with severe impostor syndrome, which we feel we have to hide in order to maintain a professional image. Once we do our own deep work, we develop a grounded sense of self-worth and self-trust that stays with us. This kind of grounded self-worth gives us the impetus to truly prioritize our own self-care, and not over-give. This may head off compassion-fatigue and burnout, which can be a disservice to your clients and to yourself.
The Inner Work of You course
Although many of us have pursued our own therapy for years, taken workshops and read books, we may still have our own inner struggles, unfinished business and life themes that we are striving to heal. I have created a course that provides the structure and container to actually take you into the experience of doing the work. The course is the culmination of my 15 years of experience working with clients and my own personal journey. It is a self-paced, at-home, self-reflection course that consists of 25 hours of guided reflection exercises, interspersed with 5 hours of experiential therapy. All of the at-home work and the therapy is confidential. In the therapy sessions, you will experience first-hand how to process past wounds and heal unfinished business – and you will be able to use these learnings with your own clients.
Would you like to learn more?
Feel free to book a free consult with me if you have questions or would like to learn more. If you are ready to sign up, please email sandy@integratecounselling.com. And please also pass this information on to other therapists, especially new therapists.