You might think that being a therapist means I have it all figured out—that I’m immune to struggles or don’t need therapy myself. That couldn’t be further from the truth. My journey with therapy has been one of the most important parts of both my personal growth and professional development.
Starting therapy as a therapist felt strange at first. I was trained to help others navigate their challenges, but I hadn’t fully faced my own. Therapy gave me a space to be vulnerable, honest, and sometimes uncomfortable in ways I hadn’t allowed myself before.
What surprised me was how much I learned—not just about myself, but about the therapy process. Experiencing therapy from the client side deepened my empathy for my clients. I better understand the courage it takes to sit with difficult emotions, to face uncertainty, and to challenge long-held beliefs.
Therapy also helped me recognize my own blind spots and biases, which makes me a better, more authentic therapist. It reminded me that healing is not linear, and setbacks are part of the journey.
One of the most powerful lessons was the importance of self-compassion—not just encouraging it in clients but practicing it myself. Therapy reinforced that growth requires patience and kindness toward ourselves.
How Therapy Has Influenced My Therapeutic Approach
Going through therapy myself has profoundly shaped how I work with clients. I’m more mindful of creating a safe, non-judgmental space where vulnerability is honored. I’ve learned to balance being empathetic with holding healthy boundaries—knowing when to challenge clients and when to simply listen.
I also prioritize transparency about the therapy process, helping clients understand that progress takes time and often involves setbacks. Having sat in the client chair, I’m attuned to how validating small wins can be and how critical it is to meet clients where they are.
Ultimately, my experience reminds me daily that therapy is a shared journey—a partnership grounded in trust, respect, and genuine human connection.
If you’re a therapist considering therapy for yourself, know that it’s okay to seek support. It doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re committed to your own well-being and the quality of care you provide.
Therapy isn’t just a job for me—it’s a shared human experience, one that continues to teach me every day.
Add comment
Comments