Walking Beside, Not Ahead: My Journey as a Counselling Intern
What It Really Means to “Hold Space” in Therapy
When I began my placement at Blueprint Counselling, I believed I knew what it meant to “hold space.” I had read about empathy, active listening, and non-judgment, thinking that supporting clients involved offering the right words at the right moment. However, I’ve discovered that holding space is more about being present, showing up as a genuine, imperfect person and allowing another’s story to develop without rushing to fix it.
How Silence Works as a Therapeutic Tool in Counselling
In my initial sessions, I tended to fill silences quickly, aiming to reassure, provide advice, or connect ideas. However, with reflective practice, I recognized that silence can be deeply therapeutic. It provides clients with the space to process their feelings, build trust, and feel truly heard without interruption. During those quiet moments, I began to see empathy not just as an intellectual exercise, but as a genuine, relational connection.
Blueprint has provided me with a highly supportive learning environment to delve into this topic. As a Counselling Intern, I am interested in how our identities, experiences, and internal systems influence our stories. Working in a practice that emphasizes compassion and inclusivity has demonstrated the importance of meeting each client where they are — emotionally, culturally, and developmentally. Many clients arrive with layers of loss, trauma, or identity-related issues.
The Importance of Collaborative Therapy and Client-Led Healing
A key lesson I’ve learned is that therapy is a collaborative process. I contribute my understanding of theories and modalities, but the client is the expert on their own life. My role isn’t to direct, but to support them: observing, asking gentle questions, and enabling them to recognize their strengths. Moving from a perspective of “helping” to one of “partnering” has significantly changed how I view the therapeutic relationship.
I’ve come to realize the importance of blending personal and professional aspects. As a first-generation immigrant and queer individual with ADHD, my identity shapes how I relate to others. These facets shape my empathy and perspective on navigating systems that are not always designed for people like us. At Blueprint, I’ve learned to value this self-awareness, using it as a strength to build genuine connections with clients while setting healthy boundaries.
Growing Through Reflection and Supervision
Holding space can be challenging; certain sessions prompt me to reflect on my reactions, whether sadness, frustration, or the urge to try harder. Nonetheless, I realize that discomfort is a normal aspect of growth. Supervision and reflective journaling are now vital practices that help me transform these emotions into insights rather than self-doubt.
Each week, sessions leave me reminded of the resilience inherent in people. Whether it’s a moment of self-awareness, a minor behavioural change, or just showing up after a tough week, these instances remind me that healing is not a straight path but profoundly human.
As I progress in my placement, I aim to further develop my ability to listen attentively, remain curious, and trust the journey. Often, the most impactful support we can provide isn’t a direct solution but a calm, reliable presence that reassures others with, “You don’t have to face this alone.”
As I continue growing in this work, I’m grateful to walk alongside those who are ready to begin or continue their own healing journeys. I’m currently welcoming new clients for both virtual and in-person sessions in London, and you can book with me here. I would be honoured to support you in whatever chapter you find yourself in.