Balancing Personal Crisis and Professional Distance - ReallY?
The last eight weeks has been a whirlwind of stress and unexpected need. It has me asking myself the question: Clients come to therapists for help in their lives, navigating a sudden change, healing a trauma (or hundreds of traumas), dealing with addiction, getting back on their feet after a loss, or whatever. But who helps the therapist? What happens when the therapist goes through that valley they are so good at helping others through? Well, I have learned a few things in the last few weeks. And here, in no particular order, are some of the things I've learned. It hits different when it's YOU . There's a degree of separation when you suggest techniques for someone else, and when the crisis is actually happening in your own life. You feel intensely alone, even though you know you are surrounded by people who care. You know it's only a perception, but the perception ... is strong. And admitting that helps the healing process start. The feelings are real. And no less ...