11/11/2025
🌊 In the realm of psychoanalysis and psychotherapy, flexibility is our greatest ally. Linda Hogan’s poignant poem, "The Way In," reminds us that there are multiple paths to healing. Just as water adapts to the shape of its container, effective therapists must mold their approaches to fit the unique needs of each patient. A rigid theoretical stance can hinder progress, leaving patients feeling unheard and misunderstood. Each individual carries distinct experiences, emotions, and aspirations; recognizing this diversity is essential for fostering a therapeutic environment that promotes growth and healing. 💧✨
🌱 When we embrace this fluidity in our practice, we enable ourselves to explore the dangerous, wounding, and beautiful aspects of our patients’ lives. A flexible mindset not only enhances our effectiveness but also protects our patients from the harm of unmet needs. In honoring the specific journeys of our patients, we cultivate a richer, more empathetic therapeutic experience 💖
🔹Follow us to read more about the theory and technique of doing psychodynamic/psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. Visit our website at www.letstalkpsychoanalysis.com or go to the link in the bio. Subscribe to our educational website for full access to our offerings, both past and present, as well as in the future! 📚✨
With gratitude to Susmita Shah LMFT, for bringing this poem to my attention!
“Sometimes the way to milk and honey is through the body.
Sometimes the way in is a song.
But there are three ways in the world: dangerous, wounding,
and beauty.
To enter stone, be water.
To rise through hard earth, be plant
desiring sunlight, believing in water.
To enter fire, be dry.
To enter life, be food.”
