Maria Dowling Therapy - A psychotherapist and counsellor in Dublin
“ What is the source of our first suffering? It was born in the moment when we accumulated silent things within us.” (Gaston Bachelard)
I think this philosopher’s statement becomes more real and more true with every year of my work as a counsellor/psychotherapist. I continue to be amazed at how talking in an unguarded, safe and free way starts a process of recovery in a human being, a process that unfolds in stages and layers. Many people struggle to understand why counselling and psychotherapy can help someone and shy away from trying it, even in times of great pain and despair. However, the reality is that there is a power in talking to someone, in a safe setting, where one knows the information shared is confidential and the person with whom they are talking, has not only the skills, but the will and resilience, to listen in a respectful, compassionate way.
Events alone do not determine the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual anguish a human being can suffer. All that is shared must be known in the context of who a person is and what also they have carried before the current trouble came. Many have never had the time, or the permission to really know who they are and why therefore events can evoke such responses in them. Others are lost and have no idea why they feel and think the way they do. There can be tremendous relief and encouragement in finding the answers and coming into a deeper understanding of oneself and the impact of life’s journey on that unique personhood.
We all experience difficulties and trouble in this life. Most of the time, we make our way through it, with the support and love of family and good friends. However, there may be times where life brings trouble, or responses in us that we simply do not understand and cannot work through with the supports and resources we currently have. At times like this, exploring the situation one finds oneself in, with a professional counsellor/therapist, may unlock what is needed for one to gain an understanding of what they need to do for themselves to move forward in life with hope and vibrancy.
