Life Transitions

Do these statements sound like your inner voice?

"I lost someone. I've been rocked and I'm trying to find some stability. I keep focusing on the loss, though, and can't move forward"
"I don't know who I am, really, like I'm a shell in the company of others. What am I doing here? What is my purpose?"
"I know what I want and must do, but I'm scared. I'm different from others. What if I fail? What if I'm rejected?"

While it's by no means the only one, a common theme of these statements is struggles with identity or worldview. Bruce Cockburn described it eloquently in his song, "Pacing the Cage," Accordingly, this type of counselling focuses on strengthening a client's confidence in how they see themselves, their experience, and their place in the world. With empathy and curiosity, I strive to help them reflect on their struggles and the meaning of their experience, as well as explore how they are growing through it.

I also look for practical solutions or perspectives that may support the client through the transition and discuss these options with the client. Finally, I look at the role of the client's family, both historically and in the present. What ghosts of the past might be holding the client back or rearing their head in the form of familial opposition as the client enters the unknown? Conversely (and just importantly!) what genuine support, experience and wisdom is available to the client from both their immediate and extended family that can help them to navigate their journey?

If you're curious to know more about my counselling approaches, you can find more information here.