Reflection:
Prior to my internship, I felt a sense of unease at the thought of having a lot of empathy toward clients because I already considered myself an overly empathic person and worried it would affect my own mental health. Through my own research and sessions with my therapist, I have learned that empathy does not mean taking on others’ emotions or carrying their struggles as my own. Instead, it means being able to understand and connect with others while maintaining healthy boundaries.
This internship has also taught me that I do not have to experience the same things as my clients to understand their perspectives. Approaching clients with compassion and curiosity has been essential, especially when their experiences differ from my own. I want to continue strengthening my ability to show empathy while maintaining healthy boundaries and allowing clients to be the experts on their own experiences.
Professional and ethical standards:
ACA Code of Ethics Standards: A.2.c, A.4.a
CACREP Common Core Area Standards: 2.F.2.g, 2.F.2.h, 2.F.3.f