Many clients perceive the healing process as a continuous upward climb, akin to the trajectory illustrated in graph A. They often believe that each day should bring improvement, and when they perceive a downturn, feelings of discouragement may set in, leading them to contemplate giving up. This mindset is often accompanied by thoughts of being irreparably broken and beyond recovery.
What clients may not recognize is that, even during perceived downhill moments represented by graph B at point B1, significant progress has been made compared to the initial starting point. While the intensity of their anxiety, pain, or struggles may have started at a peak of “10,” they may now find themselves at B1 with an intensity of “8,” B2 at “6,” and so forth. Simultaneously, the frequency of their challenges may have decreased from daily panic attacks to four times per week, two times per week, once a week, and eventually, once a month.
Drawing parallels to my experiences in hiking, I’ve learned that the path to ascent often involves navigating downhill sections before reaching an incline again.
As a therapist and mental health coach, my role is to highlight to clients that, despite the perception of a downward trend, they have progressed from the initial point to B1, B2, B3 – demonstrating notable growth and improvement. Even though they may have encountered challenges, pain, anxiety, and disappointment, they are on an upward trajectory.
A skilled therapist provides perspective, instilling hope and encouraging clients to persist. Eventually, clients can transcend the fear of descending, understanding that each setback is a step toward a higher vantage point than before.
