A-E-I ~ Phase 2 ~ Exploration of the Self of the Therapist

This portion of the model will be broken down over a few weeks, in order to provide an opportunity for each aspect to be explored.  We will continue with awareness of the experiences in our work, will progress through a few different exercises each week, and then summarize this phase of the model.
 
In Phase 2 of A-E-I framework (the "E"), we begin to explore the inner workings of the therapist, who he/she is, his/her story, and experiences as a therapist and human being.   We delve more deeply into the model of self of the therapist, how we see ourselves, in the context of our work.  Additionally, the intention is to learn what to do with these places when we get triggered or stuck, as well as how to better utilize these aspects of our story to benefit the work.  The icing on the cake is that the therapist may just very well receive healing they need around some very old wounds, which is just such a wonderful bonus! 
 
Exploring your self in the context of your work is a challenging experience.  I encourage you to team up with a colleague buddy, or seek out individual consultation as you begin this exploration.
 
Elements of Phase 2 include:

• Exploring the identify of Self, core beliefs, identity, psychodynamic framework of the therapist
• Core family of origin relationships, familiar aspects of our history that we may experience with the client, core belief in self as pertains to view of others
• Facilitate expression of needs within Self, with others
• Promote validation and acceptance of emotions, Self, response from key attachment figures

 
Initial questions to explore:

• How do I see myself as a therapist? 
• Do I see a competent individual, capable of great work? 
• Do I see a new (or old), stumbling individual trying to learn all sorts of ways to help people? 
• Am I competent and confident, or am I insecure and unsure?
• How do I compare to others in my field?  Am I average, do I fall short, do I exceed my expectations?

 
A few of the core areas that therapists have expressed a personal/professional challenge in being a therapist include:

• Competence
• Learning Style Challenges
• Being/Doing Enough
• Failure in Business
• Financial Matters/Making a Living
• Abandonment/Loss of Clients
• I Don’t Matter
• Something Wrong with Me
• Taken Advantage Of
• Perfectionism

 
Yes, we are human, too!
 
Reading Reflection: explore above questions in your personal journal, with a buddy, consultant, or feel free to comment here.
 
Next Up:  Phase 2 ~ Expression of Self ~ Safe Places to Express Yourself