Eyewitness to Therapy Episode 5: The Need for Approval

Eyewitness to Therapy

This psychotherapy session focused on the client's self-discovery and growth. The main themes the client is working on include:

1. Developing a sense of self-worth and self-acceptance: The client recognizes an increase in self-esteem and self-understanding, suggesting he's making progress in his personal development.
2. Preparing for a couples therapy session: The client intends to prepare for a joint session with his partner, facilitated by another therapist. He hopes to learn and apply healthier interaction strategies.
3. Understanding the concept of 'giving space': The client grapples with understanding the concept of giving his partner space. He is exploring what it means in the context of his relationship and how it might affect his behavior.
4. Changing communication and interaction habits: The client has realized that his typical way of showing love and care, through constant attention and connection, might not be the most effective or appreciated method. He equates his behavior to that of a puppy dog, persistently seeking approval and affirmation.
5. Reflecting on the roots of behavior: The client recognizes a connection between his current relationship behavior and his childhood interaction patterns with his mother. This realization helps him understand why he has developed the habit of 'pleasing' others as a form of validation.
6. Working towards authenticity and self-trust: The client is trying to trust that he will receive love and approval for simply being himself, rather than performing or acting in a certain way to earn it. He acknowledges the need to let go of his 'puppy dog' persona, and to present a more authentic version of himself.

Insights and realizations:

1. The client realized that his habitual pattern of seeking constant attention and approval from his partner, which he likens to the behavior of a "puppy dog," is unattractive and doesn't actually demonstrate care or love effectively. He recognized that this behavior stems from his childhood and his relationship with his mother.
2. The client acknowledged that his past actions, such as overeating or constant seeking of validation, are detrimental to his self-worth and self-love. He identified these behaviors as "addictive" in nature, leading to a cycle of self-berating and self-deprecation.
3. A significant breakthrough came when the client understood the importance of forgiveness, both for himself and others. He learned that holding on to past mistakes and guilt undermines his ability to love himself, thus leading to negative behaviors.
4. He realized that he does not need to constantly seek love and approval to feel loved or lovable. This understanding is expected to transform his behavior naturally and help him navigate his relationship more healthily.
5. The client realized that his attempts to cover his past mistakes often result in repeating the same mistakes and potentially amplifying them, hindering his progress.
6. Towards the end of the session, the client expressed feeling empowered to forgive himself for past actions and not let the lack of forgiveness justify future negative actions.

Overall, the client came to better understand the impact of his behaviors and the root causes, realizing the importance of self-love, forgiveness, and avoiding self-judgement. These insights are a significant step towards self-improvement and healthier relationships.