Being vulnerable

I feel open, moved and in awe of the struggles clients bring to counselling. Sitting in my chair, I am aware of my spine being supported, my belly moving with each in and out breath and of my heart beating. I pay attention to how my body responds to my clients’ emotions, state of confusion or resistance. Their struggles play out in our relationship too.

Relationships are complex because we carry our emotional baggage with us wherever we go. However, when we meet someone new, the first thing we want to do is pretend this baggage doesn’t exist.

In therapy the reverse process occurs because there is a constant invitation for the emotional baggage to emerge, given it is the very thing which we work with. Showing one’s vulnerability to another person can be scary, overwhelming and painful. Yet it can also be wonderful. To expose your demons to another and trust that they will still be there in the end, loving you regardless, takes tremendous courage.

For this, I want to acknowledge all those who have taken the first step in this journey.

Sam Jahara