Dynamic connecting
*** Sometimes, we just need a good map ***
Counselling is often underestimated for what it can deliver - Ultimately, it provides a very real opportunity to identify new choice, possibility, and direction unique to each person.
Not everyone wants to "get deep and meaningful." And explore their emotions. Not everyone "occupies that space" Unfortunately, this is the assumption some people (and some counsellors) have made; most people simply want a solution and choice.
Talking to a counsellor is primarily about creating a unique space, a comfortable place to explore our concerns, ideas, feelings and expectations equally. A supportive, relaxed, non-judgmental atmosphere can also encourage us to explore unrecognised possibilities and choices.
Expressing our thoughts can in itself be a therapeutic experience, especially when we feel comfortable doing so. Sharing what’s on our minds often gives us a sense of "letting it go." It is the counsellor's job to assist you in this process.
Sharing our thoughts with friends and family isn't always the right place to do that. Unfortunately, people judge, and without experience, often unintentionally, they will give you advice based on what they would do. Sometimes, being understood in someone else's terms is worse than not being understood at all.
There is a very real difference between listening to respond and listening to understand. It takes practice and training to understand what is “ours” and what is someone else's, but there is no substitute. It takes many years experience to truly appreciate another person's world.
Counselling is a rare opportunity for you to be genuinely heard. It is a different type of dynamic between two people, one built on curiosity and possibility. (and positivity)
It’s this resourceful alliance between two people that creates a climate of choice, opportunity, and support. Unfortunately, the value of a human connection has been overlooked in modern times, probably because it requires patience, skill, and experience, as well as a profound understanding of one another.
It's unfortunate that some individuals and organisations have tried to replace the essence of "being human" — our mistakes, uncertainties, creativity, and need for validation — with techniques and questionnaires.
However, there's an instinctive ( perhaps rebellious) part of us that recognises when we are being treated as a number and expected to conform to the techniques applied to our situation instead of being acknowledged as a unique human being.
Relying solely on standardised procedures lacks the flexibility to create an authentic atmosphere filled with possibilities and creativity. The truth is that a standardised approach can never accommodate the incredible variety of possibilities we are capable of as human beings.
Our capacity for a human connection is often the key to "unlocking solutions," which actually means the most authentic solutions we can experience already exist within us.
This dynamic, created by two often different "personalities"—the very essence of being human—ignites our curiosity and allows for natural connections to be made, leading to the discovery of genuine, lasting solutions.
From time to time, we all need a good map to find our way. It's important to note that a good map can guide us to locations that might otherwise be difficult to find—places that give us access to our own resources, possibilities, and solutions. Often, the solutions we seek only become visible when we arrive at "the right place" to see them.
Connecting with someone who possesses a good map and has experience navigating different terrains can be extremely beneficial.
— John Williamson,
To be clear, this represents the view of John Williamson, which may not align with other counsellors or the NHS.
#johnwilliamson #rethinkingmentalhealth #inspiringthought
www.better-than-hypnosis.co.uk