When I reflect on the time I spent working with inner city Allentown School District kids, I can’t help but think about the resilience they had. After school was dismissed, they came to the Salvation Army, where they were able to be kids – laugh, play and create with their friends and us, the volunteers. Everyday, the program provided dinner for them to eat, which was incredibly important to this population. However, once they went home, many of them readopted their responsibilities as the eldest child, babysitter, or caretaker for themselves. Our volunteer group came once a week and showed up. Of course, it came with its challenges, but each week was a gift. Our mission was to make an impact on their lives, but we soon realized that they were making an impact on us. This was a site where college students wanted to fulfill their service hour requirements, but the challenge was that they wanted a “one and done” type of volunteer site. Anyone who works with children knows that they need consistency. When they bond with us, they expect us to show up for them time after time.
In the mental health world, especially when working with children and teens, it is vital to the therapeutic relationship to show up. When clients enter my office in Nottingham, it is my mission that they feel welcome, seen, and heard. Just like my sign says, “everyone is welcome here.” When providing therapy for children, fun and integrative approaches are important to for rapport building. We get down on the ground, play games, and maybe even do some jumping jacks if we need a reset. Similarly, when providing therapy for teens, we may sit in each other’s space, color, draw, discuss the current show they are binge watching, or listen to their favorite song. All these things are done to help our clients feel safe.
That leaves us to reflect on our question for today, How can I make an impact? Simple…by showing up and being consistent, reliable, and of course, heart-centered. Not only for our clients but for ourselves. While it is an honor to hold space for others, we must also learn how to hold space for ourselves too. Otherwise, we become exhausted and miss out on the beautiful blessings that are in front of us. Think about it, if we can show up for ourselves, how will we show up for others? Easier said than done, I know, trust me, but give yourself a chance. You are worth it!
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