Who Deserves The Credit?

In all of the years I have practiced, I have never before had three clients end therapy on the same day.  Each was an appropriate ending.  When they first came in to see me, an issue was identified and they had successfully achieved a goal.

The conversation at the last session was very typical.  I was thanked for the wonderful work I had done.  To me, it feels like being credited with their success.

I do not take the credit.

I point out that I may offer some insightful comments, suggest some viable alternatives, and offer support regarding how they feel.  But I do not have the ability to make change in anyone’s life.  Change is predicated on a person’s willingness and ability to do the work.

It is important to me that each client recognize their work in causing change in their life.  The credit belongs to each person.  It is valuable for each of us to recognize and take pride in what we are able to achieve.

Control and success are wonderful.