Take a deep breath in for a slow count of 4, hold for 4, exhale for a slow count of 4; hold for 4. Allow this deep breathing to fill your body, notice your body, name the places in your body you feel at home. Now, imagine your ideal therapy session.

• What qualities would your therapist possess that would make you feel safe? (e.g., warmth, active listening, non-judgment, consistency, empathy)

• What would you need to feel comfortable being completely open and honest? (e.g., clear boundaries, a sense of privacy, feeling understood, permission to go at your own pace)

Stepping into therapy can feel vulnerable, and it's natural to wonder if you'll truly be heard, understood, and accepted without judgment. This is where psychological safety comes in – it's the bedrock of effective therapy and, frankly, the foundation for thriving in any relationship or environment.

What is Psychological Safety?

At its core, psychological safety means feeling safe enough to:

• Be yourself: Bring your authentic thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of negative consequences, shame, or ridicule.

• Take risks: Explore new ideas, challenge old patterns, and try out different ways of being, knowing that it's okay to make mistakes or not have all the answers.

• Speak up: Share difficult emotions, express doubts, ask "silly" questions, or disagree, confident that your voice will be respected.

• Be vulnerable: Open up about your deepest fears, insecurities, and past wounds, trusting that this space is confidential, non-judgmental, and supportive.