An Open Letter to my Clients

To every client, past and present, this letter is for you:

In therapy, you usually won’t hear much about your therapist. This space is for you. But you might still wonder about things like who I am, what I think of you, and why I do this work. I’d like to share a bit about that here.

I care about you and I root for you. During our time together, we have shared laughs, celebrated wins, expressed outrage, and mourned the loss of loved ones. Sometimes we have felt stuck and sat together in silence. Whatever our session looked like, I want you to know that I have joined you with an open heart and mind. Though there is a professionalism to our relationship, we have built a genuine connection from sitting with each other week after week, month after month.

I recognize the odd dynamic of our relationship. You’ve shared your biggest vulnerabilities and struggles with me, and you know so little about me. Know this: I have immense respect for you and the trust you place in me in sharing your story. I know it’s not easy to keep showing up. I know it’s not easy examining parts of yourself that may bring up feelings of discomfort or shame. I know it’s not easy to “do the work.” I see my own therapist. On the days that I struggle to do the work, I think of you. The way you soldier on gives me the strength to do the same.

I am a flawed human with my own set of challenges, traumas and insecurities that I’m working on. Anxiety and depression are familiar friends of mine. Much of what I share with you are skills and insights I’ve learned on my own journey. And I understand that knowledge isn’t everything. Sometimes on the days I’m struggling, like many of you, even though I am fully aware of the tools that will help me feel better, I choose to not use them. 

For those who have “graduated” from therapy with me, I hope you recognize how much you have grown. It has been an honor being a part of your journey and witnessing that growth first-hand. And for every word of gratitude you shared with me, I hope I made it clear that I’m grateful for you too. Some of you have said that our goodbye felt bitter-sweet. Graduating from therapy feels like something to celebrate, and yet it comes with the grief of closing this chapter together. Our goodbye felt bittersweet to me too. 

Know that from time to time, little things remind me of you. I think of you and hope you’re doing well. 

Your therapist,

Sheena