“When I have been listened to and when I have been heard, I am able to re-perceive my world in a new way and to go on. It is astonishing how elements that seem insoluble become soluble when someone listens, how confusions that seem irremediable turn into relatively clear flowing streams when one is heard. I have deeply appreciated the times that I have experienced this sensitive, empathic, concentrated listening.”
Carl Rogers
Being heard
The presence of a friend, being heard and appreciated – these are experiences that strengthen our self-esteem, and also support us in coping with everyday life. However, when a significant challenge or stress we face becomes too strong to deal with, it will require more than just being listened to by a friend.
Change of perspective
Sometimes in such circumstances, impulsively we would like to be protected from unpleasant emotions and the further consequences of overwhelming events. But it would only bring temporary relief, and in the long run, it would make us only more dependent and less agent. So, first we need to find out how we perceive the situation. It may often turn out that while starting from our needs and desires related to the problem and not from looking for quick solutions, new possibilities and available resources become more visible. And by seeing more, we increase our chances of living the way we really want to live, not the way others (or our past) have chosen for us.
Session with a psychotherapist
A session with a psychotherapist is therefore an opportunity to look at a situation that at first seems hopeless, overwhelming and causing fear, shame, anger or sadness. And by seeing new options, we can initiate real changes in our own lives and deal with the consequences of the choices already made.