During a breakthrough with a technically minded client involving mapping the debilitating steps of OCD into a flow chart to mimic a domestic hot water system, he appeared increasingly enthusiastic. These moments, when someone who might have struggled for so long, arrives at a point of clarity, … [Read more...] about Teach the children
Self Acceptance
How To Make Yourself Anxious (and then stop doing it)
I'm having a video call with my daughter and trying to get the dogs into the car following our walk. Precariously holding the phone between my chin and shoulder I'm trying to make sure I have both the leads and my rucksack. My daughter is walking to the supermarket to buy milk. She's been … [Read more...] about How To Make Yourself Anxious (and then stop doing it)
It’s Normal To Feel Stupid
Anticipating a heatwave and inspired by my daughter's purchase of one recently, I decide to buy a fan instead of finishing the assignment due next week. It's a simple enough job, I tell myself, and proceed to spend the best part of a morning looking at different styles and models whilst trying to … [Read more...] about It’s Normal To Feel Stupid
How To Remain Stuck
In group supervision, a colleague is telling us about a client stuck in a negative loop of self-defeating behaviours despite constantly expressing a desire to change and make his life better. Instead of focusing attention on doing things that he rationally and logically knows will make him feel … [Read more...] about How To Remain Stuck
‘Man Up’ and why emotion can never be wrong.
This week I read a report in the newspaper about how farmers who have lost their entire crop due to flood are ineligible for a government hardship fund because their farms are too far from a major river. It’s a pity that the politicians didn’t think to inform the rivers when they came up with the … [Read more...] about ‘Man Up’ and why emotion can never be wrong.