Category: Therapeutic relationship

Complex trauma, Coping, counseling, grief, Mindfulness, relationships, self care, self worth, Therapeutic relationship

The Compassionate Witness

I believe that counseling (or any therapeutic intervention) should be intentional. Having a treatment plan in place is, after all, required by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council for Licensed Professional Counselors. I tell my clients that it is never their job to have “material” for the session. It is not their job to come … Continue reading The Compassionate Witness

boundaries, counseling, relationships, self care, Therapeutic relationship

Why can’t we be friends?

Counseling is a unique experience. It is vulnerable, raw, excruciating, and profound. The therapeutic relationship is unique and unlike any other relationship. The therapeutic relationship can be difficult to understand but it is one of most important factors that influences the outcome of therapy. Because the therapeutic relationship is so unique, and perhaps mysterious, it … Continue reading Why can’t we be friends?

boundaries, change, Complex trauma, counseling, Post Traumatic Stress, PTSD, relationships, self care, self worth, Therapeutic relationship

Compliance as a survival response

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com Survival is complicated and incredible. We are innately wired with a sophisticated stress response system that allows us to survive hard things. To put it simply (although this is an oversimplification) there are 3 primary default responses to threat. First we seek social connection—safe people. If safety is not found … Continue reading Compliance as a survival response