Visual metaphors and insights

When I was younger, I would ask a lot of questions to my teachers and often draw inspiration from art, theater, movies and books. Many perceived me to be a misfit, as I seemed to question everything about the way psychology was taught. My gut instinct always told me that psychology existed beyond textbooks - it existed in dark alleys, minds of writers, poets and everyone who struggled with a story.

It has been over 10 years now, that I have been working as a psychologist. Whether it was my work with TISS, or private clinic, I have had the privilege of working with some of the brightest minds, human beings struggling with concerns that seems to question their deepest fears. A lot of my work has been with visual artists, writers, and people in the creative field.

Working with them have triggered visual metaphors for me, which are a huge source of my personal learning. I remember how in a session, a strong metaphor found life within me. The conversation revolved around how I have tried to balance or prevent myself from being carried away by strong thoughts and ideas. As I was speaking, I could see myself standing far away in a visual field, where there were multiple ideas, just like speech bubbles, surrounding me. I could see them, feel them, yet they were far away. They could influence me subtly, but were not strong to sweep me away. It almost feels like the, observer in me, has gradually come to being.

Thank you to everyone who has trusted me with their darkest and deepest self. Do you think visual metaphors and insights have healed you? I would love listening to your story.