I Get To Walk Away

I walk away from the moment of impact in what feels like slow motion. Moments before I could have had my whole life taken over by the issue - the topic that would have been yet another struggle to overcome.

It’s pure luck. Sometimes you get hit hard and sometimes you get to walk away - knowing full well the hurt and healing you are bypassing.

The relief is inexplicable. The fear of being too happy too soon. The shock that the ordeal is really over. You’ve hoped for so long. It feels surreal now.

When it’s safe and you are clear from the fire in the rear view mirror, you begin to feel the depth of exhaustion you’ve been in for so long. You feel elation that is indescribable. You feel honored by the glimpse into another world you got to see but don’t need to stay in. You feel guilt for the many that you leave behind in the wreckage.

And it’s the little things after - that bring you the most joy. Just to be a normal person with normal worries and normal errands to run. A simple day. A chance to end the day with no existential life questions. Just rest. Just a moment of peace. Just a whisper of gratitude.

From My Heart...Now Is The Time To Hire A Psychotherapist

Here is a note I shared with my friends…

I think most of you know I am a psychotherapist since 2011. I've been in the field for many years before as a social worker in many different roles. So I say this as a professional who is devoted to the most amazing career and a friend....please hire a psychotherapist today. You do not need to be in crisis to talk to someone.

There is something magical about having one hour a week just for you about you. You can say anything and say it any way you want. Unless you are a danger to yourself or others, we take whatever you share to our grave.

You can change your mind a moment after you said it and that's fine. You can stop talking at all when you want. You can cry, scream, laugh or vent. Many therapists offer video or phone sessions and will work with you if you don't have insurance to find an affordable rate.

Search psychologytoday.com to find a therapist (you can filter for insurance if you have it or a speciality). Search openpathcollective.org for therapists holding opening for clients $30-60/session. This is the time to try even one session from your home or your car or anywhere you can get some privacy. There are services that are text and email online (like BetterHelp and TalkSpace).

If you had a bad experience with a therapist before or just have a bad stereotype of psychotherapy, now is a good time to refresh that narrative and find the right match for you. The techniques they use are less important than the connection you feel with them. Search for someone you want to talk to. Give it 3 sessions to make up your mind.

Try it. You have nothing to lose but great insight and specific coping skills to gain.

From my heart to yours - hire a psychotherapist today.