Despite the obstacles,

I pursued the great monk

The misty mountains a million layers high

He pointed to the road back home

One round moon, lantern of the sky.

-Han Shan (c 730)

The decision to contact a therapist is a complex and meaningful experience for anyone facing a challenge in their lives. Our ability to manage our life comes into question and we find ourselves facing circumstances that we fear are beyond our capability to resolve. The therapist appears as a resource, someone who has the answers and the skills to help us. When I meet with someone for the first time, I hold an appreciation for the courage it takes to seek help and a respect for their wisdom and capabilities. We work together to clarify the issues and determine a path to achieve their goals. This becomes the road illuminated and we travel together, paying attention to the assumptions and beliefs that help or hinder the journey. Ultimately, they realize the great monk that resides within themselves and regain the confidence and hope that was obscured by the clouds of their doubts and worries.