Shadow Y Luz

if you have ever had me as a therapist, you know that I am quick to explain 80% of my eye rolls are involuntary. I am upfront and blunt about my blindness. The way I see it, How can I expect you as the client to be honest and transparent if I’m not doing the same?

I vividly remember being told by a psychiatrist that I could not be an efficient therapist because of my blindness. He was concerned I wouldn’t pick up on body language. Funny how he picked up on mine. *Cue middle finger*

Truth Bomb

The truth is that many of my clients are actually more comfortable because I am blind. I’ve received feedback saying they’re glad I can’t see them, they feel like they can open up because I’m not just staring at them and my telehealth people can just put their device down. In fact, many of the people who break down and cry in my sessions are male. I’ve been told it’s easier to open up to a female who isn’t looking at them.

In fact, contrary to popular belief, my other senses are not necessarily enhanced. The truth is I pay closer attention when I am listening. I often tell people I can hear the smile and their voice, listen to them fidgeting across the room and the difference in how your voice projects when you look down. These are vital clues to me as a therapist. Your voice is like my thermometer. I can tell if you’re hot or cold. The tone, inflections, rate and pauses reveals more than the words you say.

In conclusion

I end this post sitting at my office waiting to see my next person. Well, not literally see them but you know what I mean.