One icon—or stereotype—I keep bumping into in the mental health system is the pretty young therapist. Not exactly striking, but cute. She’s well-groomed, works out, diets, and keeps herself polished. And in every session, she subtly teaches you to do the same. There’s something about her presence that draws you in, making the hard work seem… well, a little easier.
I remember one session in particular. This beautiful therapist, on day one, casually asked me if I was interested in dating. I almost fell off my chair! It was like being on an awkward first date where you’re trying to figure out how personal you’re supposed to get. She could come across as a sort of surrogate girlfriend, but one that’s needed. The kind that encourages you to face the tough stuff—school, exercise, addictions—but with the soft touch of someone you’d actually listen to.
It’s kind of sly when you think about it, but it works. Somehow, her agenda slips through the “pretty” and hits you in just the right way. She’ll talk you into those difficult tasks without much resistance, and before you know it, you’re making progress. Maybe you’re even dating a real girlfriend at that point, and when you need advice on that front… surprise, the pretty young therapist already knows.
She’s got that insight, and it’s as if she planned for this moment all along. The mix of professional wisdom and this subtle, personal touch really works—whether you want to admit it or not.
by Dan and Bonkers
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