The Heart of Therapy: What I Love About My Practice
by Karolien Vandersmissen, MACP, RCC
Hey there!
I am Karo, one of the counsellors at the Vitality Clinic.
For this blog, I got to ponder the question “What do I love about my practice?”.
So, let me take you on a little excursion through what makes my practice not just a job, but a passion.
A Collaborative Journey
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all, it’s a collaborative journey. It’s a privilege to be a visitor in your inner world, working together to explore your thoughts and feelings and seeing how they are inextricably linked. Each therapy session is a new adventure without a guaranteed destination. It’s about exploring the unknown and uncovering new insights, all the while ensuring you feel supported.
Connection
The connection we build throughout this journey is the foundation for therapeutic progress and goes beyond understanding your story. When we talk, it is my goal to honour your vulnerability and truly connect with your experiences, fears and hopes. Seeing clients feel heard and validated is one of the most enjoyable aspects of this work.
The AHA Moments
There’s a unique thrill in witnessing the ‘AHA’ moments—the times when everything clicks for a client. How satisfying it is to be part of these moments of clarity, when pieces of the puzzle fall into place and a new understanding ensues. These encouraging moments not only shed light on the path forward but also highlight and reinforce a person’s strength and resilience.
Laughter
Contrary to the stereotype of constant tears and sorrow, humour and lighthearted moments are integral to the healing process. Laughter fosters connection, eases tension and provides a fresh take on life’s challenges. Therapy isn’t just about navigating sadness. It’s also about celebrating victories – both big and small – and finding joy along the way. I’ve had the pleasure of sharing many laughs with my clients, showing that even in our deepest work, there can be room for a good chuckle.
Fostering Confidence and Resilience
Working from a strength-based perspective, it is my mission to help you see your own strengths and expand upon them. There is no bigger reward than witnessing someone become more self-assured and confident in their judgment and abilities. Combining these personal resources with developing and sharpening problem-solving skills fosters resilience, helping you bounce back from setbacks and prepare for future challenges. Seeing clients step into their own power is a testament to the transformative nature of therapy.
Personal Growth
As a counsellor, I also continually learn from each of you. Each client brings their own unique experiences and perspectives and this constant exchange of ideas helps me grow both personally and professionally. Every story and breakthrough teaches me something new and contributes to my ongoing development, making me a more attuned and effective therapist.
Never a Groundhog Day
Therapy is never boring. In the therapy room, no two sessions are the same, because no two people are the same. Every session brings new stories, perspectives and insights, making each interaction a different experience. With every client, I navigate different paths, explore new perspectives and face unique challenges. This constant change keeps the work engaging and keeps me on my toes!