FIRSTS

As I prepared myself to post our first blog entry by the practice–my first blog post ever–I found myself thinking that launching a blog could feel a bit like going to therapy for the first time.  I’m a therapist of almost 20 years, a parent of 3 children and a director of a group psychotherapy practice in DC with 10 absolutely stellar therapists. Yet, I’m not a writer. I mean, I’ve written thousands of pages of research and clinical papers throughout my career, but really I’m first and foremost a clinical social worker who provides counseling to children, families, adults and couples.  I thought to myself, “how could what I have to say be post-worthy?”

I was anxious, that was clear. And with that feeling came the inevitable procrastination. I put off posting this first entry. I found a million other things to do other than just hit send. I doubted. Then I found myself reflecting on the first time that I went to therapy. I was a 20-something young woman newly in the field of counseling, and I needed some help with stress and my relationships. I knew therapy was a good option. Of course, I was a therapist! Yet, I was scared to make the call. Even after I pushed past that initial fear and took myself to that first session, I left confused and a bit overwhelmed. Actually, I remember getting lost on my drive home in a city that I had lived in for almost 10 years.  Twenty years later, I still get anxious with firsts, like publishing this post. But what I’ve learned is that feeling anxious can misguide us. It can cause us to fight, to escape or to avoid until we call on the necessary tools to approach the task or problem at hand. And sometimes we all need support in making that call or pushing the button for those firsts.

When I found myself looking for a therapist that first time, I used my skills as a social worker to reflect on the problem, network for a good referral, interview potential therapists by phone for the right fit, and sort through who and what would be most helpful. I considered skills, clinical approach, age, style, personality, cost and location. I was successful and lucky–I found a perfect fit for me. Here at The Sibley Group, we recognize how difficult it is to make that first call. We prioritize calling new clients back right away and are here to use our skills to help you sort through who and what will be right for you, your relationship or your family. Whether you are calling for child counseling, group support, family or couples therapy, or individual psychotherapy for yourself, you will find that our team has a potential match for you.

So here goes! Welcome to our practice and welcome to our blog. I look forward to sharing and learning many things together. Through this blog, I hope that you will get a chance to know each of us at the practice. We look forward to sharing ideas and hearing your responses.  Thanks, Dr. Allison Sibley, Director–The Sibley Group