As a bilingual therapist primarily working in my second language, English, to support expats in improving their mental health, emotional well-being, and relationships, I am fascinated by how language enables deeper understanding and healing in the therapeutic room.
In this blogpost, I will discuss my insights and experiences with therapy conducted in a language other than the client's native tongue. A therapeutic environment seeks to establish a safe space where clients can genuinely express themselves, examine their thoughts and emotions, and, through self-reflection, achieve a deeper understanding of themselves, their experiences, and their relational patterns, as well as heal any traumas they might have. In that, language plays a significant role.
Language is the medium through which my client and I build a working alliance. By using empathic and affirmative language, I aim to create a space where my client feels safe, understood, heard, accepted, valued, and appreciated. When these qualities are present, my client feels secure enough to discuss their life struggles. This environment is both relieving and healing, and with psychological expertise and psychotherapeutic skills, I can help my client in managing their life's challenges in ways that align with their values and integrity. Consequently, a more fulfilling and meaningful life unfolds.
As a therapist, I am skilled in listening actively and attentively to my clients, discerning the subtleties of their language, and empathetically guiding them toward self-discovery. Utilizing reflective listening, open-ended questions, and suitable challenges, I encourage my clients to explore their experiences and emotions more deeply. By creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, I facilitate greater self-awareness and personal growth empowering my clients to feel a stronger sense of agency in the world. Additionally, when I meet shameful experiences and emotions with understanding, acceptance, and empathy, shame dissipates—since shame thrives in darkness, it cannot endure when exposed to empathetic light in a healing relationship.
Nonetheless, it is equally powerful, healing, and transformative for clients to articulate their own stories. Frequently, when a client openly processes their thoughts and emotions regarding an emotionally challenging topic or experience, they start to perceive things differently or let go of stuck emotions, allowing healing to commence.
The link between language and emotions
Language and emotions are closely connected. The terms we choose to describe our emotions can influence how we feel and express them. Many adults lack a suitable vocabulary for their emotional experiences, so as an Emotionally Focused Therapist, I frequently assist my clients in recognising and naming their emotions.
For a client, starting to comprehend their emotional landscape can enhance their emotional intelligence, as they become more in tune with their own emotions and their influence on thoughts and behaviors. Through therapy, as they gain experience in expressing their emotions - as a consequence of this, it becomes easier and safer for them to communicate clearly and concisely with those closest to them. This facilitates the development of healthier relationships and improves their overall emotional well-being. Language serves as a tool to articulate and share our emotions, improving our capacity to connect with others on a deeper level.
The significance of cultural sensitivity in therapy
Cultural sensitivity is crucial in therapy, especially when the client and therapist speak different native languages. As a therapist, I am dedicated to be aware of the cultural differences between my clients and me. I also remind myself that various cultures have distinct methods of expressing emotions and addressing sensitive issues, and that it is my responsibility to respect and honor these differences.
Language differs significantly amongst cultures, and specific words or expressions can have diverse meanings or implications. Toxic shame typically develops early in life and is closely tied to our native language. From my experience, when therapeutic work is conducted in a client's second language, addressing deeply rooted core wounds can be less shaming - and as such, more accessible.
The impact of non-verbal communication in therapy
Although language is a potent tool in therapy, non-verbal communication significantly contributes to the therapeutic process as well. Non-verbal signals like facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice offer important insights into a client's emotional state and experiences.
I am skilled at noticing these non-verbal signals and utilising them as extra sources of information. This approach is useful when conducting therapy in English - not only if my client has difficulty expressing themselves in English, but also if they are having trouble emotionally connecting with themselves.
For instance, a client's slouched posture or watery eyes might suggest sadness or distress, even if their words don't directly convey these feelings. By being sensitive to these non-verbal signals, I can respond with empathy and offer the needed support.
Conclusion: utilising language's power for healing
In summary, language serves as a potent tool in therapy. Even when my client and I do not share the same native language, but use English as a common language. Language acts as a means for contact, connection, and healing.
