Second Week of School

Last night was the first night of our counseling triads.  We have groups of three (they stay the same for the entire quarter), and we rotate between being the counselor, client, and observer.  Each of the sessions are recorded and then we get feedback, both from the observer during class and from the TA by e-mail later. 

I was the client first, which I had me pretty relieved.  I've been in tons of therapy over the years and I'm pretty good at discussing issues with people.  We are allowed to talk about whatever we want, so I discussed CG's upcoming trip to Vegas and all my fears/insecurities about it.  My counselor was a little awkward and it was weird knowing that my personal story was being viewed and recorded, but it went okay. 

I was the observer second, and that gave me a chance to sit back and watch the other two group members work together.  Since this is the second week of my first quarter, I wasn't quite sure what to critique but it was ok.  I'll get figure it out.

I was the counselor last, and I was a little nervous but not as much as some people were.  The prof had done a really good job of reassuring us that it would be uncomfortable and scary at first, but that it would get easier.  I didn't feel like I had to be a superstar right from the beginning so that put me at ease.  However, being the counselor was the most awesome thing in the world.  I didn't say much, and mostly just paraphrased and empathized, but it just felt so great to be in that role.  I am so excited to keep working on my skills and confidence all quarter and continue to improve. 

And I am done with my second week of school!  It's better than I thought it would be, and now that it's October I will only be working 3 days a week.  I am looking forward to that as well as CG's and my joint birthday party tomorrow.  I think it's going to be interesting having my friends, his friends, and mutual friends all in the same place!