Source: Photo by Vivek Kumar on Unsplash In our first two articles in this series written in collaboration with Chrissy Ellis, LCSW, PMH-C, we have identified what matrescence is and what it means to navigate this transitional period as a therapist, the various client and therapist reactions that commonly occur, and how to use the…
Individual Psychotherapy
Matrescence as a Psychotherapist: Part II
Source: Photo by Bethany Beck on Unsplash In our first article in this series which was written in collaboration with Chrissy Ellis, LCSW, PMH-C, we discussed the profound change we undergo during matrescence, or the physical, psychological, and emotional changes associated with the transition into motherhood. We also explored just how challenging it is to…
Matrescence as a Psychotherapist: Part I
[Photo by Ryan Franco on Unsplash] Our roles as therapists are characterized by the ability to create and hold space, bear witness to vulnerability and change, and attend to the dynamic and varying needs of our clients. Our roles as mothers and caregivers often demand these very same things. The transition to motherhood fundamentally changes…
Demystifying Psychotherapy: What Is the Essence of Psychotherapy?
A dizzying array of theories, modalities, and approaches makes up the vast field of psychotherapy. Humans have counseled, supported, and reassured other humans since the dawn of humanity. We are social beings who are not only capable of extraordinary empathy, but also derive comfort and joy from meaningful connection. The formal discipline of psychotherapy was…
Demystifying Psychotherapy: What Are Ruptures in Psychotherapy and How to Deal with Them?
The client-therapist relationship ideally offers a sense of safety, allows for vulnerability, and creates space for exploration. Your relationship with your therapist is unique and evolving because, just as in all relationships, human beings bring both tangible and intangible qualities to every interaction. Some people’s chemistry meshes better than others. Sometimes you find someone who…
Demystifying Psychotherapy: I’ve Decided to Give Psychotherapy a Try, Now What?
You’ve decided to try psychotherapy! This is a huge step that is worthy of celebration. After making this decision, you might find yourself wondering, “Ok, now what?” This article is meant to be a general guide to build knowledge and awareness. In providing clarity around beginning psychotherapy, I hope to lessen any feelings of anxiety…
Demystifying Psychotherapy: How to Know If It Is Time to End Psychotherapy and What Does the Process Entail?
In this installment of the Demystifying Psychotherapy series, I discuss the process of ending psychotherapy. Saying goodbye to your therapist is ideally an intentional and gradual chapter in your psychotherapy which has its own set of goals and outcomes. Let’s explore the many questions and issues involved. The nearly universal question: How long will therapy…
Demystifying Psychotherapy: How to Get the Most Out of Psychotherapy
In this part of our Demystifying Psychotherapy series we will be exploring what happens at the beginning of psychotherapy, and how to get the most out of your experience. Psychotherapy is an investment in yourself and your future. It is not a quick fix, or a one-size-fits-all approach. Psychotherapy takes time, commitment, energy, effort, and…
Demystifying Psychotherapy: What Is Psychotherapy and Why Try It?
Over the next few weeks, we will share articles with the aim to demystify psychotherapy. As therapists, we often hear our clients say that the hardest step for them was reaching out, scheduling the initial appointment, and sitting with uncertainties such as what will happen once they meet with the therapist and how will therapy…
Three things to keep in mind as you decide whether to reach out to a psychotherapist (and to remember if you’re already seeing one!)
Starting psychotherapy feels daunting to most, if not all, people. The majority of clients we work with attest to the fact that reaching out to schedule an appointment and coming for the first session was the single most challenging part of the entire process. There are multiple, valid reasons for feeling uneasy. Not knowing what…
