Giving myself permission to listen to what my body and mind need

Rayna Tomasian - Pawtucket, RI

When I first reached out for counseling I was struggling with parenting, marriage issues, and anger. What I enjoyed most about my sessions with Stephanie was that she took the time to fully listen. I like that she always brought it back to God and our relationship with Him. I’ve had many therapists just want to put me on meds and who made me feel like I was completely out of control of how I wanted to heal.

One thing I learned through counseling was to accept that not everything has to be in my control. I also learned that I have some work to do when it comes to renewing my own mind and that God isn’t going to "just do it for me". I find that I'm giving myself more grace and permission to listen to what my body and mind need - even if that means not getting things done - then it’s ok. I understand the value of working on myself as a mother because then I can be a better version of myself which will benefit not only myself but also my family and others. I have also become humbler in my relationship with God, realizing that He has me even on days that I can’t feel Him or don’t see answers to prayers right away.