Some memories from 2019 (!) that still ring true today:
My big adventure this year has been traveling back to New York City and visiting Georgia—a beautiful mirror of the different regions where I've lived my life (north/south). I hope you're finding some time for your own adventures this summer too!
Finding My Path Forward
Lately, I've been contemplating how to grow my business and truly embody this full-time private practice life. Writing has been on my mind quite a bit. There's a part of me that has always wished I could be a writer—you know, "a room of one's own" and all that.
Perhaps it was listening to Elizabeth Gilbert and seeing her speak earlier this year. She's so remarkably composed and well-spoken, AND she writes for a living. Could I do that? Could I transform these blog posts into something truly helpful? We shall see, but for now, here's a start—a little story from your colleague/therapist/future therapist.
My Journey: From Theater to Therapy
I graduated from college with a degree in theatre, education, and no job. College had been a profound time of self-exploration, but afterward, I found myself working at a bar in my small hometown. It quickly became clear that I needed to figure out my next step sooner rather than later.
When the call came asking if I wanted to share a house in New York City with two guys I knew and one I didn't, I jumped at the opportunity. My parents are pretty amazing—thinking back on it years later, I realize they didn't have to support that decision, but they did!
Living in Brooklyn was a dream come true! I worked hard, took acting classes, and performed in a few plays. The most important lesson I learned is that while I am independent, I have always had help. I've had the privilege of growing up in a safe town with enough food to eat and a loving family.
Despite struggling in school, with writing, and with communication, I found my path. I wrote my first monologue, then a short one-woman show, and eventually performed with a dance theatre troupe. I wouldn't trade these experiences for any other path.
Embracing the Journey—Mistakes and All
Recently, my child asked what mistake I would change if I could. Honestly, I couldn't settle on just one. Sure, I wish I hadn't hurt people (even inadvertently). I wish I had stood up for folks who faced discrimination in my hometown.
But when I take inventory of my life, there isn't a huge choice I regret enough to change. Why am I sharing this "accept everything happens for a reason" message today? I believe my own therapy has helped me embrace this truth (most days). Therapy continues to help me come to terms with this fact of life: every mistake, every moment, is an opportunity to learn.
My Approach to Therapy
When you work with me, you'll find that I tackle your challenges with the same philosophy I apply to my own life. We're here to learn and to be in relationships. I believe there is inherent good in all of us.
Though I didn't become an actor, I can help you process emotions, the deep work actors engage in daily. I especially enjoy helping people in transition and can also support folks with parenting challenges. (Check out my last blog about expressive arts if you haven't already!)
Let's Connect
I'm available for sessions most days in person and online.
Whether you need individual therapy, a group session, or a day-long workshop for your workplace, I'd love to help. While I don't see couples, I can provide additional support for individuals engaged in couples therapy.
Let's try to find some time to connect or reconnect soon.
Thanks for reading!
Warmly,
Bridget