Real Talk from the Couch

Now it’s my turn in the hot seat. I have no idea what Abbey is going to throw at me, which is exactly what therapy is like. Every hour you meet with someone and you have no idea what they will bring up, what happened in their life, what crisis they may have experienced and you have to be ready for anything. It’s a lot of fun and I’ll tell you that early on in my career, this part of the job contributed to my anxiety. I remember my mentor prophetically saying, I have heard it all, nothing surprises me anymore, and one day you will feel the same way. I can’t say that I’m never surprised, like the time a client tried to jump out of my window, then ran away with me hot on his tail. (Don’t worry, I called 911, ran around outside and was able to de-escalate before the EMS arrived)As a therapist, I do my best to understand mental health and specialize in certain areas, Trauma and couples are my two favorites. But, when you are working with someone, you may not realize that someone have substance misuse or an eating disorder and I will refer to someone else who specializes in that treatment. So, I don’t have all the answers and often will consult with Abbey or give Brian a call, or catch Kelly in between sessions. When you are are a green therapist, I will tell you that focusing on your own self regulation is always important part of therapy. We Co-regulate and if you are anxious- your client will feel it. (Mirror Neurons) But if you are operating with a regulated nervous system, they will co-regulate with you. So, no matter what anyone throws your way, take a deep breath, you don’t have to have all the answers, and listen. (This is easier said than done- sometimes you hear someone talk about hurting themselves or someone else and your nervous system may react).Today, I’m going to give you an insight into how and what I’m thinking before I give my therapeutic response. I wish I was that quick on my feel, like Abbey was during her Q&A to give you my humorous response when it’s appropriate, but I can’t promise I have anything witty to say. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abbeysamide.substack.com