A Placement Student’s Lens

Dear Reader, 

I’ve watched a client move from feeling helpless and defeated to discovering a profound sense of hope and strength. From the first session, though a cloud of confusion and sadness surrounded them, I sensed their readiness to understand what had brought them to this point. Their strength and curiosity emerged as we spoke, even if they couldn’t yet see it themselves—how could anyone in a vortex of hurt, frustration, and hopelessness?

Through a lens, shaped by unconditional positive regard, empathy, and hope, I focused first on the courage it takes simply to step through our door.

As psychologists, we look for your strengths and deeply value your collaboration in the therapeutic process. We might even think about you outside of sessions and wonder how you’re doing, especially if it’s been a while since we’ve seen each other. Sometimes, you may receive a call or email from us checking in. We also reflect on our own practice—wondering if you felt understood, if our approach was helpful, and how we can improve to better meet your needs in future sessions.

Therapy is a shared journey, and we strive to create a safe, trusting space where you feel comfortable exploring and growing.

We continuously seek inspiration and are guided by other healthcare professionals, aiming to expand our knowledge and refine our approach, because, after all, no we cannot read your mind.

Though I am still in the early stages of my career as a provisional psychologist on placement, I’ve come to believe strongly that individuals are, in most cases, the experts of their own lives. Therapy serves as a supportive structure that helps clients piece together the parts of their experiences that may feel loose or incomplete, empowering them to gain a fuller understanding of themselves.

Therapy is more than a word, it’s a transformative force that empowers those who feel voiceless, helps others uncover meaning, illuminates hidden parts of themselves, and, for some, opens the door to deeper questions.

In many ways, therapy is its own superpower—a sixth sense waiting to be unleashed. I am often in awe of my clients, regardless of their age or background, for the vulnerability they show in sharing memories and parts of their identities with, at first, a stranger. 

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey. 

Eleni- Placement Student at the Anna Centre.  www.annacentre.com.au