Love in the Therapy Room

The Healing Magic of Psychotherapy

I recently had a conversation about love being the healing magic that is psychotherapy.

Coldness. Feeling Bullied.

In this conversation, the individual I was talking with shared that when they had recently expressed some unmet needs in their therapy, which required a huge amount of courage on this individuals part, they were met with perceived coldness.  At another point in this conversation, this individual shared that they felt bullied by their therapist.  As someone who specializes in complex trauma, I gently reminded the person I was talking with that therapy is the place that is supposed to be safe, where they are supposed to feel supported and yes, loved.

Love as it Relates to Psychotherapy

Love as it relates to my work as a therapist, is rarely discussed amongst my professional colleagues. Maybe it’s time to change that.  First, I love what I do--I am deeply passionate about being present for my clients, about holding space for them to be vulnerable to explore their pain, their sadness, their anxiety and their traumas.   In doing this work, I come to love my clients, their strength, their resilience, their beauty and their growth.

Love Helps Create Safety and Authenticity

Back to that conversation, when this individual shared they were feeling bullied by their therapist, they also shared they were no longer able to be fully authentic in their treatment.  This admission made my heart ache.  If we are unable to be fully authentic in therapy, then where can we be fully authentic?

Perfectly Imperfect

Yes I am a therapist, but first I am a human and that makes me perfectly imperfect.  There are times I have and will continue to make mistakes, but it is the love and authenticity I bring into the therapy relationship that allows for repairs to happen, for forgiveness, for growth.  For me, it is the love I bring into the therapy session each and every time I meet with someone that allows my clients to heal, to transform. It is those same clients who have taught me to love fully and openly.

Transformation

There is something magical when you love another human unconditionally.  In the therapy room this unconditional love and acceptance creates the space for transformation and healing, for growth and self-love to bloom.

My hope is that we all can find that place where we are loved unconditionally.

Find Support, Connection, And Healing In Group Therapy

If you are longing for a place where you can feel seen, supported, and accepted, group therapy may offer the comfort and connection you have been searching for. Healing does not always have to happen alone. In a safe and caring group therapy setting, you can share your experience, feel less isolated, and discover the power of being understood by others who truly get it. If you are ready to experience the love, encouragement, and growth that can happen in community, reach out today to learn more about joining a group therapy session.

With love and gratitude,
Shannon