What Brings People In
People come to therapy in various ways; some are eager to engage in the process, while others may be uncertain, and some are brought in reluctantly. It’s always a fascinating mix. Additionally, it’s intriguing to discover the experiences that new clients bring to the room, their expectations, and how they might express them, if at all.
What’s even more fascinating to me is observing how and when individuals come ready to put in the work during intensive sessions. These clients tend to be clear, focused, and acutely aware of what’s obstructing their path to their goals. They are determined to remove those obstacles promptly.
It’s worth reiterating that we all do what we can, when we can, and when the timing is right. This principle applies not only to everyday tasks like laundry but also to the work required to eliminate habits, beliefs, and limiting mindsets that hold us back.
The Nature of Change
Change can be a peculiar thing; it often doesn’t progress at the pace we desire. Sometimes it moves agonizingly slow. Think when we’re awaiting graduation from college or rebuilding trust after a major mistake. Other times, change happens so rapidly that it’s hard to keep up. An unexpected accident or diagnosis for example. Then there’s that in-between period when you sense something is afoot but it hasn’t fully materialized yet, like that gut feeling that tells you your partner might have made a regrettable choice. Want to learn more about the stages of change? Start here: https://sphweb.bumc.bu.edu/otlt/mph-modules/sb/behavioralchangetheories/behavioralchangetheories6.html
Here’s the silver lining in all of this: we all have options. We all have ways to address the hurdles that arise. When you think about it, the only real decision is how much support you’d like as you navigate what’s been either slowly creeping up on you or suddenly sprung upon you.
And here’s another piece of good news: there’s nothing entirely new under the sun. Yes, your situation feels unique, and it might seem like no one else has been through it. But the truth is, none of us are all that special. It may sound blunt, but that’s not the intention. What I want to emphasize is that despite your fear or hesitancy in acknowledging your challenges, others have faced similar issues and come out the other side stronger. Here’s an older blog piece about trauma that talks about those types of awful incidents we’d rather not speak of, including complex trauma. https://lisacurtislcsw.com/variations-on-the-theme-of-ptsd-a-brief-look-at-c-ptsd-betrayal-trauma-and-intimate-partner-trauma/
Bringing It Altogther
So, where does that leave you? I hope it leaves you with the realization that whatever you’re struggling with doesn’t have to persist this way. Finding yourself in a space where there’s support, guidance, and a reality check doesn’t have to be a dreadful experience. Surprisingly, it can be a very positive step forward.
Moreover, I hope you take away from this that you have the right to voice your expectations for your therapy journey, whether it’s in weekly sessions or intensive formats. Your goals and your investment in yourself are the only things that truly matter.
If you’d like some support to navigate a hurtle or limiting belief, please don’t hesitate to reach out. This is the work I do and couldn’t love it more.
