The Therapist Presence Series: Starting with Self Awareness

One of the most powerful tools therapists possess is themselves - their presence. While presence isn't easily measured, research shows it may be the single most impactful element of a therapy session. Yet many therapists, seasoned and freshly minted alike, overlook this quality, missing out on something far more foundational than technique or theoretical approach.

Try this exercise to tune into your presence: Find a quiet space where you can sit without interacting with others - a cafeteria, a park bench, or your living room while family members focus on another activity. Turn your attention inward and observe what is happening without judgment. Do you feel tension or ease? Are your thoughts calm or active? Pay attention to your posture and energy - all of these shape your presence. What is it like simply to sit with these observations?

Try this in a few different settings to notice the subtle ways your environment shapes your internal state.

Next time, we’ll examine other factors that influence your presence. Thank you for taking time for this exercise! Please let me know what you thought of this - your comments and feedback are always welcome.