Patterning and Linking

In therapy, we are looking at the patterns that show up in session, that are often problematic patterns from the past.  These patterns echo and ripple throughout our lives often creating the same situation—and we feel as though we are constantly reliving the past or the same thing over and over again.  Rarely though, are we able to see these patterns for ourselves, and only see the aftermath and consequences—and are left feeling confused or in pain .  The feeling of, ‘I’ve been here before’, or ‘here we go again’ often is a sign of a patterned behavior or dynamic.  

In spite of this, we do not have to repeat the past—and we have the freedom and agency to choose our own way and change.  We start to find ways out of these patterns by making links between the past and present.  Seeing how our past has shaped us, and how we have become stuck in old patterns that are no longer serving us is the beginning down a path towards growth, hope, and forgiveness.  This is one of the core competencies of relational psychotherapy, and a vital task in the therapy process for healing and growth.  

If you wish to read more about this idea, please check out The Core Competencies of Relational Psychoanalysis by Roy Barsness.