Looking back at this project months later has given me a fresh perspective on it while also recalling many important lessons. This is especially pertinent as my project relates to my experience in my first semester of graduate school. The project's concern of observing versus participating is ever-relevant as I work to be present while integrating new skills and ideas into my beginning counseling practices. It is one thing to learn about counseling skills, and another thing to embody them!
Personally I still struggle to be what I am lately calling "thin skinned," so that I am open to receive and be part of the world around me, particularly in emotions and body. I have noticed that as has been my habit, intellectually engaging is easier than the other more present-focused modes, but knowing that helps me to counter it by facing my "growth edges" instead of going with the immediate response. Realizing the importance of dance and my choreographic experiences has shown me that I'm in fact theoretically inclined towards a very present-focused therapeutic theory, Gestalt. Actually, rather than blogging now, I should be working on articulating my personal theory of counseling for a final paper.
Today this acceptance and honor has been a huge support as I continue to enthusiastically struggle to own and fully be who I am, to live that out prolifically. The process never ends!
...By the way, since you last heard from me I became a New York dancer, performing with my project mentor's company. Check out that story here: http://my2280pints.blogspot.com/! I'm the only future therapist I know who also lived and danced in the Big Apple!
