Whether you are reading this article as a therapist, counselor, psychologist, supervisor or consultant
This. Is. For. You.
Guess what, it’s for me too!
I recently heard a speech from Scott Miller where he asked when was the last time you listened to understand, instead of listened to respond.
Insert HUGE facepalm here for this girl!
Listening to someone’s past, someone’s business needs, someone’s struggle in their therapeutic approach, someone’s fears of testifying in court, someone’s worries about business finances, someone’s imposter syndrome, someone’s story…..
Is the most selfless, generous, and empowering thing you can do.
It doesn’t matter what role you are in.
As a therapist it is so important to understand our role in listening, instead of educating or explaining all the time.
As a supervisor, it is so important to understand the worries, goals, aspirations, and fears of the clinician you are supervising.
As a consultant, it is so important to listen to the therapists treatment goals, modality, obstacles, and successes.
Great leaders are great listeners. Great Supervisors are great listeners. Great therapists are great listeners.
So often we feel put in the spotlight and like we need to have all the answers and everything to say to make it right.
The truth is, when we are quiet. The other person has the opportunity to say more, feel more, and process more.
Cut yourself some slack.
Get off your own agenda!
Everyone single person wants to feel heard,
Feel listened to,
Feel understood.
Have confidence in yourself to listen.
Give the gift of fully hearing the other person today.
It takes practice.
It takes patience.
It takes consistency.
It takes discipline!
Interrupt Less! Stop Talking! And Hear!
Sending You All So Much Love-
Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash