In this episode, Kim Rippey, LPC, and Kaitlyn Steele, LMFT, dive into the delicate balance of helping clients sit with discomfort in therapy. They explore how to recognize when a client is experiencing healthy versus unhealthy discomfort, how to gauge your own role as a therapist in these moments, and how authenticity and attunement can serve as anchors for both therapist and client.

Kim and Kaitlyn share practical strategies for identifying nonverbal cues, checking in with clients, and pacing sessions to encourage growth without overstepping boundaries. They also discuss the importance of trust, co-regulation, and guiding clients to confront challenges safely, even when it feels uncomfortable for the therapist. Listeners will gain insight into using their authentic self to create a safe, supportive space where meaningful growth can happen.

Key Takeaways:

• How to identify healthy vs. unhealthy client discomfort

• Using authenticity and attunement as anchors

• Recognizing verbal and nonverbal signs of discomfort

• Balancing client-led vs. therapist-led exploration

• Strategies for supporting clients through challenging topics

• Preparing for repair when discomfort leads to minor ruptures

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠Keystone Therapy Group

Instagram: ⁠@KeystoneTherapyGroup

Supervision: ⁠https://keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/

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Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction.

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