I truly love everything psychology related. A lot of what I read, podcasts I listen to, social media accounts I follow, and shows I watch are related to the work I do. I really enjoy learning everything I can about what makes people think, behave, and feel the way they do. Plus, I want to be able to show up as a knowledgeable therapist for my clients.
It became obvious to me during my experiences in study abroad programs — such as the Existential Analysis course I did in Vienna, Austria – that I learn best through an experiential process. Reading a textbook and listening to a lecture just don’t do it for me in the way that experiencing the therapy process first-hand does.
I find it really important to be a therapist that serves as a role model and not one that takes the “do as I say, not as I do” approach.
So, before I go trying new therapeutic approaches in my sessions, I like to experience them as a client first. This was the case with talk therapy in general (Psychoanalysis), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Gestalt, and currently, a Process Group. It is very important for therapists to understand what it feels like to sit in the chair of the client – to know what it’s like to be vulnerable and process through the heavy things. I have to admit that there is also a more “selfish” reason for why I like to have these experiences – I want to feel better too!
There are counseling/psychology programs out there that require students to receive their own therapy. That was not the case with my Master’s program or the Doctorate program that I briefly attended. Luckily, I had a professor in that PsyD program that really encouraged us to engage in therapy and even provided resources for this. Fast forward eight years and I continue to engage in therapy so that I can show up as the best version of myself for my clients, my loved ones, and most importantly, for myself.
When we take the time to work on ourselves and truly do “the work,” we are more likely to show up to interactions with others from a more compassionate, mindful, and authentic space. We will be better able to express our feelings, communicate our needs, and validate the experiences of others.
Your “receipts” don’t have to be in the form of a therapy bill (although we know how valuable I think therapy is). This can also look like:
- A regular yoga or exercise routine
- Reading books on self-care, inspiring memoirs, self-help
- A mindfulness or meditation practice
- Healthy eating habits
- Regularly getting a full night of sleep
- Practicing open, mindful communication skills
- Engaging in creative outlets
- Journaling
- Connecting with nature
- Staying hydrated
- ___(Fill in the blank)___
Connecting with Nature 
Creative Outlet 
Boxing Workout
Just doing things with purpose and intention of being present with yourself in order to learn more about yourself will make such a difference. What is on your receipt and what would you like to add more of?
