The hardest part about writing this article was coming up with a title that really captures the depth of the subject. I wouldn’t say that I was successful in doing so, but let me tell you what I meant.
It’s been reiterated often, that the therapeutic process is not an easy one. Which is why I as a therapist understand the reason why clients may discontinue, even when other factors are conducive. With immense empathy for the ones that aren’t yet ready, and I’m saying yet, since I truly believe that when they want to, they will embark on this journey at the right time. Today I’d like to talk about the ones that are ready and decide to do it now! – despite the hardship, difficulty and struggle.
Avoidance of adverse situations is probably knitted into out DNA, for survival reasons perhaps, but in today’s world, avoidance or escaping may not be an effective way to cope since most barriers and difficulties are now overcome by facing up to them. So, when the clints come to sessions even on particularly hard days, or when they come in nervous, if we’ve planned something challenging for the day, I like to take a moment and acknowledge the strength it took to show up, and to really appreciate their commitment toward growth, change and self-improvement.
Another reason why therapy is challenging is that we confront so many aspects about ourselves which we may not be very open to. This is why resistance to accepting things about ourselves is common in a session. In my personal experience as a therapist, I have observed that the clients who are more open and less resistant to these things make progress a lot quicker. Again, this is not a race and there is no proper time or schedule to see improvements. The resistance in fact is a big part of the process, and may actually lead to great learnings in time.
All the concerns my clients come in with and share with me, I’m honored that they trust me to be of assistance to them. With each unique client, who progresses at their own pace, I learn so many things from each one of them- and every day I applaud their strength and commitment to come back the next time even after difficult sessions!
– Urveez Kakalia.