As a psychologist, I love what I do and cannot imagine another profession that I would choose. Everyone has a story, and people are infinitely interesting. It is humbling how much I have learned in the last two decades, by listening and being present for the person and all that he or she is sharing. The resiliency of the human spirit, too, is incredible.
One phenomenon not taught in graduate school is related to the the last five minutes of a therapy session. This is when the client is most inclined to drop a bombshell - even though it might seem more logical for that to occur at the beginning, when there is ample time left to explore and discuss.
Having sat on both sides of the desk, I have found that it is much easier to be the psychologist than the client. But who wants a “shrink” who hasn’t also gone through therapy? In my opinion, it is critical for the therapist to know exactly what it feels like to be the client. Self-discovery and examination are painful at times, but ultimately healing for the body, soul, and spirit, at least in my case. Yet I must confess that I too have been guilty of waiting until the last five minutes to share with my therapist an important fact or piece of information that was deeply affecting my life.
Over the past twenty years I've heard many bombshells dropped in the last five minutes of a session. Here are just a few:
I slept with the pizza delivery guy last night. I pick up homeless men and have sex with them in my garage. I petitioned the court to dig up my father’s grave for the third time so I could say good-bye. My mother hurt me for years - well, actually, she used a broomstick to punish me in every way imaginable. I have been wearing women’s underwear for years even though I’m a guy. I have sexual fantasies about my dog - well, actually I’ve had sex with her. I am masturbating five times a day at least. I have another therapist right now, who isn't saying the same things you are - why?
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
Interesting observation. I'm thinking your second theory is more true, especially if there is a good bond between the two.