A common misconception about therapy is that it’s only for those who are experiencing severe mental health issues or crises. In reality, therapy is a valuable tool for anyone seeking personal growth, better stress management, improved relationships, or greater self-understanding. It’s not about being “broken” or “weak”; it’s about taking proactive steps to maintain or enhance your mental health and well-being. Therapy can be beneficial for anyone at any point in their life, helping to build resilience and cope with everyday challenges.

Humour can be a valuable tool in therapy. I ensure that humour is used in a way that respects your feelings and experiences, and never at the expense of your emotions or situations. When humour arises naturally in therapy, it can enhance the therapeutic relationship and foster a relaxed environment that encourages open communication.

Creating a safe and supportive space for clients is paramount in therapy. I start by establishing clear boundaries and confidentiality, ensuring that you understand your rights and the protective frame of our sessions. In addition to actively listening, validating your feelings, and showing empathy, I tailor the environment to be welcoming and comfortable, and always respecting and affirming your unique cultural, sexual, and gender identities. Regular check-ins about the therapeutic process and adapting to your feedback is also crucial to maintaining a space that feels secure and supportive.

Building trust begins with demonstrating consistency, empathy, and respect throughout our interactions. I emphasize creating a non-judgmental space where you can feel your concerns and boundaries are understood and respected. It’s important to communicate clearly that therapy moves at your pace; there is no rush to disclose anything until you feel ready. I also use active listening to ensure you feel heard and seen.

By showing unwavering support and patience, I aim to gradually foster a sense of safety that encourages you to engage more deeply as you become comfortable.

Ensuring my own well-being is crucial to being effective in my role as a therapist. Regular self-care practices are key—I engage in activities that rejuvenate me, such as reading, spending time with my loved ones, and spending my evenings walking in nature. I also prioritize professional development and personal therapy to continually refine my skills and process my experiences. This helps me stay grounded and prevents the accumulation of stress.

A recent book I’ve found particularly helpful is “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown. This book delves into the power of vulnerability and how it can transform the way we live, love, parent, and lead. Brown’s research and insights challenge the perception that vulnerability is a weakness, illustrating instead that it is a source of strength and connection. It supports the idea that by showing up and letting ourselves be seen, we can make more meaningful connections and lead more fulfilling lives.

For my clients, “Daring Greatly” has been instrumental in encouraging them to embrace vulnerability as a courageous act, helping them to break through barriers of shame and fear that often hold them back. It provides them with the language and conceptual framework to better understand their experiences and engage more openly in therapy.

One quote I find myself often sharing with clients is by Viktor Frankl: “Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
This quote is powerful because it highlights the control we have over our reactions, despite not always having control over what happens to us. It encourages mindfulness, responsibility, and the recognition that our choices are fundamental to our personal development and emotional freedom. It’s particularly resonant in therapy, where much of our work involves exploring that space and making conscious, healing choices.