On Beginnings: Taking the Plunge

In the self-reflective tradition of psychotherapy practice, it seems appropriate to write about beginnings as we launch this website, this practice, and of course, this blog. Scott Belsky in his book "Making Ideas Happen" points out some common pitfalls in starting projects. One is the risk of intoxication - new ideas (or relationships!) are so exciting that we may not take on board feedback or warning signs, or may flit from new beginning to new beginning, riding the wave of that initial excitement without following through. The other risk he points out is that of pulling back at the last moment, letting the fearful "reptilian" part of our brain convince us that we need to prepare more before sending that draft to a publisher, asking that person for a date, or committing to that speaking engagement. The solution is just to do it! If we wait due to fear, sadly we'll probably never do it. 

Beginnings of projects or resolutions are delicate times, but how much more delicate is the start of a relationship, or more delicate still, the start of a therapeutic relationship? After many years of being with clients for first therapy sessions, the first meeting still excites and enlivens me. It's often of considerable therapeutic value compared to the (still necessary) slower later on integration process, in which insights found in the therapy room translate into the rest of life. I believe that no other form of inquiry or research can come close to replacing the value of just spending time in person talking to a potential therapist. 

If you're considering doing therapy, I encourage you to take the plunge. Towards the end of these initial meetings I always encourage clients to reflect with me about what from our conversation felt like it worked, or didn't work. I've never found this to be an unproductive discussion. So, whether it be a relationship, a project, or starting therapy, the question that might draw you forward is: wouldn't you like to find out, and experience it first hand, for yourself?