Reflecting on the Year that was 2020 with Madison King, RCC, MSW
The end of the year is a great time to look back and reflect on what we have learned, accomplished and even just survived. This year especially has been one like no other. We asked our practitioners 5 questions about 2020. These our Madison King's responses. Madison is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Registered Social Worker.
What do you think was the biggest personal obstacle you had to overcome this year? How did you prevail?
The year of 2020 brought many changes to my personal life including moving to a new city and having our first child. Despite these changes being positive in nature, they also brought forth challenging emotions. I found it helpful to acknowledge and validate both the positive and difficult aspects of each situation. I am happy to live in Squamish AND I miss my previously established sense of community. I am unbelievably grateful for my daughter AND at times I miss the independence (and sleep) I had previously. Through looking at both sides, I am able to have empathy for myself and to hold space for both the positive and difficult emotions.
How did COVID affect your business/career? How did you adapt? How is it different now (if at all)?
Prior to Covid, meeting in person has always been my preferred method of supporting people. When interacting in person, body language can be observed and energy is exchanged easily within the room. Due to covid, all sessions started to take place over the phone or through video. At first, I was hesitant to this approach, but I now believe there is a lot of benefit to it as well. People are able to connect with a counsellor from the comfort of their home. The time a session takes is decreased as there is no travel time and for some anxiety is reduced by building a relationship with someone from a distance. As Covid restrictions (hopefully) decrease in the 2021, I will continue to explore with new and existing clients if phone, video or in-person sessions are their preference. I am now more aware of the benefits of all 3 and strongly believe that there is opportunity to integrate different methods of connecting.
What is one of the more common ailments that you treated today? What advice can you provide for those who may still be suffering with something similar?
Throughout my career, I have lived and worked in various communities with different populations. One experience that is universal is grief. When we initially think of grief, we often reflect on people who have passed away. However, grief presents in far more situations than the loss of a loved one. Some situations that may elicit grief include but are not limited to: divorce or separation, moving, loss of a job, changing schools, not making a sports team, workplace bullying, mental or physical health diagnosis, pregnancy and/or difficulty conceiving, having a child, change in financial status, child leaving home or infidelity. Even inherently positive changes and evoke grief. Seeking the support of a counsellor to help you organize and process your grief can decrease the weight and impact of grief on your daily and overall functioning. While the experiences you are undergoing are unique to you and it may feel as though no one understands, you do not need to go through it alone.
What are you grateful for that happened this year?
I am grateful for the opportunity to support the clients who allow me to walk alongside them on their journey. I am grateful for my family, health and the support of those in my life.
What are you most looking forward to in 2021?
I am looking forward to connecting with more people and sinking some roots into this wonderful community.
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