1.) What if I don't know what to say or where to begin? That is okay! We are human, and our stories are complex. Oftentimes in counselling, we will jump around into different chapters of our past, present and future. We will talk about your strengths and your concerns. We will chat, listen, laugh, cry and grow together, and there is no pressure for how this journey needs to look. Don’t worry about where to begin, just jump in and we will figure it out together.
2.) I am not sure about what my goals are, I just want someone to talk to. Is this right for me? Of course! Counselling is something that anyone can benefit from. Regardless what the motivations are for you reaching out, I am here to meet you where you are at and support in the kind of ways that feel best for you. If that is having a plan, a goal, or more of a structure, then we can do that! If it is leaving it more open ended, and just having a safe space to share, then that is oaky as well!
3.) I am nervous about being diagnosed with something I am not ready for At Art of Thriving, a diagnosis is not the goal of counselling. We are not here to label you, to define you, or to pressure you into a box. At no point in our journey together will we diagnose, but rather create space to monitor progress, learn tools, and discover who we are.
4.) What if I say something that scares you? This is a fear that I had a lot growing up when I spoke with counsellors and therapists. They always tools me "there's nothing I haven't heard before" and I never believed them because, can anyone really have heard every scenario? What I have come to learn though, is that these things we fear sharing are usually the chapters of our life that will help us in the counselling process. When a client shares something with me, no matter how intense, it is a moment of gratitude. I am not thankful that I was trusted with this information and thankful to be able to support them through this moment. It may seem scary to share things, and that is okay. It is never my goal to force someone into sharing something they aren't ready for. Rather, as we build in our trust, as we grow in our therapeutic relationship, you are welcome to share anything when you feel you are ready, and I will be here to thank you for your trust, and to help guide you through the process.
5.) What if I don't like the process, or Alicia's style? That is 100% okay! When someone reaches out for support what is important to me is they are able to find what they are looking for, and if that is not me then that is okay! What I will do, if someone would like, is provide referrals or suggestions of other professionals who may be able to fit your personal style, and assist in your journey.