It’s important that you take time to step back and contemplate the impact you, as a therapist, have on your clients. The purpose is not to boast about your ego. Just the opposite actually. The purpose ought to be aimed at coming to a deeper affection of what we get to do and how, what we do as a therapist is bigger than ourselves. A deeper appreciation leads to a greater love and commitment. If our clients get to encounter a therapist who appreciates what they do, and are passionate, who also understands the vastness and mystery of it, all while knowing they are but a stepping stone, then our clients will get the best treatment.

What is it then, that we do? That’s a very big question, one I’ll address more in depth later. In order to begin the descent into such a steep and profound space I’ll begin to explain what we do as therapists. First, like Christ in the scriptures when he encounters the woman at the well. Who is in a state of depravity, loneliness, and despair. He invites her to new waters, challenges her to change and gives her hope. We too, get to encounter our clients and invite them into a new reality so they may experience what life of “life giving water” truly is like. We challenge them and empower them to make the necessary changes that last a lifetime, bringing about hope and healing. Again, like Christ, who, when encountered the woman caught in adultery, looked her in the eyes, did not condemn her but loved her, reinforcing her true worth, and calling her to live in greatness. Where many of our clients in great shame and hurt look down upon the floor, giving way to the demons of self hatred. In such a moment like this, inviting our clients to look up and allow themselves to be seen by our gazes, their eyes pondering their shame and bringing light to much darkness. Then, in the newness of light and self worth, they take the steps towards growth, knowing that their therapist also doesn’t condemn them.

We rejoice with those who are rejoicing, we weep with those who weep. We give space to be messy, to find oneself. We challenge and encourage. We teach and we listen. We provide comfort, a sanctuary where one may find peace. A place of a warm hug or a kind smile, knowing they are seen here, known here, loved here. Where tears turn into meaning, and where clients get to encounter God, themselves, and others. As therapists we get to encounter souls, be present to them, and bring hope and healing that lasts. I don’t do it justice, however, knowing time will lead to greater depths of what is fully at work between a therapist and a client.