The Gift of Time - Interview with Julie McInnis

<p>Episode Title: “The Gift of Time” Interview with Julie McInnis, LMHC of Chrysalis Counseling Services</p> <p>Intro: Julie McInnis is the founder of Chrysalis Counseling Services and works with clients who have trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD), and also does clinical Supervision for new Counselors.</p> <p>We’ll listen as Julie talks about how the COVID-19 Quarantine has affected her and her counseling practice, and find out how she, as a psychotherapist, copes with the chaos of adjusting to a new way of life, both personally and professionally.</p> <p>1. How are you doing therapy sessions in The COVID-19 Quarantine?</p> <ul> <li>Telehealth sessions in her kitchen / dining room</li> <li>Visiting her office to clean and water plants. “I miss my office!”</li> <li>Tip: Julie keeps the image of “The Chrysalis” in her mind: A Chrysalis is the holding environment for a butterfly, and is a place of transition. She is holding space right now for growth, while keeping a vision of what is to come, and what is new. So the image of the Chrysalis is much like the world we live in now!</li> <li>TIP: Thinking of The COVID-19 Quarantine as a blessing, “The Gift of Time” as an opportunity to do self-care, to hold, and to grow. “Things are happening in the Chrysalis,” and “It may take some time,” and “I hold a vision of growth and what is new.” (Very optimistic reframing!)</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>2. Story #1: A positive experience during the new world of COVID-19 can help create positive emotions, which can calm the chaos in your mind.</p> <ul> <li>Giving to strangers in need can create compassion and “being human,” or “re-discovering your humanity.” It can also give you some appreciation for what you have.</li> <li>Taking action where you can, and connecting with your humanity can help you feel better…even when you are tired or grumpy.</li> <li>Calming the Chaos Tip: Remember to use what you have (like maybe use oak leaves for toilet paper?)</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>3. Story #2: A “not so positive” experience during th