When Counseling is Safe

Frank McKenna via unsplash

I’ve been thinking about what is it that I do as a licensed mental health counselor. How can I describe what I offer?

And so, in my truest heart-space, I looked to nature for guidance and started to daydream.

Within minutes, two hummingbirds followed by two wild bunnies appeared. I watched and observed. All were playing and zipping in and around the bushes and trees and vying for the feeder.

Hopping, darting and exploring.

​And I said to myself, “Oh my! That’s it!”

​I am a sensitive creature and quick to notice as I follow the process of my counseling clients. I’m intrigued with what isn’t said as well as what is said.

I listen carefully as if I have two large rabbit ears twitching and sniffing the winds and I believe in their pain and stories that too often haven’t been.

I notice the tone of my clients as they walk, smile, laugh or shed tears.

I hold open space or circle it down to keep it safe. I let their voices rise or whisper.

Together, if need be, we ‘die’ and explore the depths of pain, abuse, worries, and fears. I feel images and see feelings and share what has risen.

We create a bond of sacred space where authenticity and trust can truly grow.

Sometimes we use art or music and let the spirit of colors and shapes and sounds speak what words can’t. Other times I’m reminded that questions don’t always have immediate answers; however, we wait together and explore to see what is your deepest soul’s truth.