Life as a Psychotherapist

Posted under Pschology

As a psychotherapist (Marriage and Family Therapy) trainee, I spend a part of my day seeing clients with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Avoidant Personality Disorder, Depression, etc. For the most part, I find my work as a psychotherapist very enjoyable. After all, I help clients see themselves in ways that they probably have never thought of seeing themselves before. I point out parts of their life stories that reflect strength and resilience — characteristics they have forgotten they had — and watch as their eyes twinkle with delight: “yeah, you’re right. I overlooked that part of me” often is the response.

But, I would be lying if I said it is always good. There are times in this early part of my career when I am left wondering and asking myself “what is going on?” I watch as a client’s eyes twinkle in amazement as he discovers a part of himself he’d never thought of one week only to find that twinkle replaced by the look of confusion the following week.

Most weeks are great, while others not so. So, I take it a client at a time, on a week-by-week basis. No matter the modality of my theoretical leaning, the best I offer is a curious understanding and hope — hope that my clients will see that no matter how bad life gets, they have it in them to persevere and succeed.