In this conversation, Dr. Cam, Dr. Kim, and Dr. Dan discuss the experience of feeling like hypocrites as therapists. They share personal stories of struggling to practice what they preach and the challenges of maintaining professional boundaries. They emphasize the importance of self-reflection and the need to continually work on their own well-being. They challenge stereotypes of therapists as emotionless or robotic, emphasizing the importance of being genuine and relatable. The hosts also explore the concept of congruence and the value of owning one's imperfections as a therapist. They highlight the collaborative nature of therapy and the importance of normalizing struggles and challenges. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the human side of therapy and the power of humor in building rapport and facilitating growth.

In this episode, Dr. Cam and Dr. Dan discuss whether new therapists are more effective than seasoned therapists. They reflect on their early experiences as therapists and the enthusiasm they had when starting out. They explore client preferences for younger or older therapists and the tension between client preferences and therapeutic needs. The conversation also delves into the effectiveness of seasoned therapists and possible factors that may affect therapeutic outcomes. They discuss the potential impact of stagnation and the use of evidence-based practices, as well as the role of procedural memory in therapeutic approaches. The episode concludes with a discussion on the resistance to trying new interventions. In this episode, Dr. Dan Bates and Dr. Cam discuss the importance of the therapist as the most effective tool in therapy. They emphasize the need for therapists to keep their instrument sharp and avoid getting stuck in ruts. The conversation then shifts to the trend of seeing younger therapists and the reasons behind it, including the openness of the younger generation to seek therapy and the prevalence of younger problems. The impact of social media, attractiveness, and intelligence on therapy outcomes is also explored. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next episode on the paradox of introspection.

Takeaways

• New therapists often have a high level of enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, while seasoned therapists may experience a shift in their identity and enthusiasm over time.
• Client preferences for younger or older therapists may vary depending on the type of problem they are seeking therapy for.
• There may be a tension between honoring client preferences and meeting their therapeutic needs, especially when there is a mismatch.
• The effectiveness of therapists may be influenced by factors such as experience, use of evidence-based practices, and the ability to maintain enthusiasm and adaptability.
• Continued professional development and a willingness to learn and try new interventions are important for therapists to provide effective treatment. Therapists are the most effective tool in therapy, and it is important for them to keep their instrument sharp.
• The trend of seeing younger therapists is influenced by the openness of the younger generation to seek therapy and the prevalence of younger problems.
• Factors such as attractiveness and intelligence can influence client preferences and perceptions of therapy effectiveness.
• There are benefits to seeing less experienced therapists, including their enthusiasm, flexibility, and the opportunity to work with an experienced supervisor.

• Clients should be open-minded to different therapist characteristics and preferences, as there may be unique benefits to each.

Dr. Dan Bates and Dr. Cameron Ortega discuss how being counselors has affected their social lives and interactions. They explore topics such as analyzing people, being asked for therapy advice, and the challenges of socializing with non-therapists. They also discuss the emotional burden of counseling and the responsibility they feel to help others. The conversation highlights the performative aspect of therapy and the post-session high they experience. Overall, they reflect on the impact of their profession on their personal lives and social interactions. In this conversation, Dr. Cam and Dr. Dan discuss the impact of being a therapist on their personal lives. They share stories of shocking revelations, ethical dilemmas, and the burden of responsibility. They also explore how being a therapist has enriched their relationships and the importance of self-care strategies. Overall, they express their dedication to the profession and the fulfillment they find in helping others.

Takeaways

• Being a counselor can affect social interactions and personal relationships.
• Counselors may struggle with transitioning from small talk to deep conversations in social settings.
• The emotional burden of counseling can impact counselors' social lives.
• Counselors may feel a sense of responsibility to help others even outside of therapy sessions.
• The performative aspect of therapy and the post-session high can be fulfilling for counselors. Being a therapist can have a profound impact on personal life, including facing shocking revelations and ethical dilemmas.
• Therapists often feel honored and privileged to be a part of their clients' personal growth and development.
• The work of a therapist can be emotionally exhausting and may require self-care strategies to prevent burnout.
• Therapists develop a deep appreciation for the resilience and humanity of their clients, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
• Maintaining personal relationships and engaging in self-care are essential for therapists to continue doing their work effectively.