In the pain there is healing

I've been at my job for almost three weeks now, and so far I love it. I was hesitant to work with adolescents, but in reality they are great. I think I am enjoying the kids I work with now even more than the elementary school kids. Although they can be immature at times, they are intelligent and insightful, and are fairly good at following the rules we have at the program. These are teens filled with all sorts of emotions and struggling with a variety of issues- from depression and suicidal thoughts, to conduct disorders and the like. I am learning so much from listening to them tell parts of their stories, and feel like I'm starting to build rapport with some of them. I have not yet started to lead the social skills/DBT education groups. I am still observing and learning about the program, and getting to know the kids.

My coworkers form an interesting and caring team. They really have created a good therapeutic environment (in my opinion) with good structure and a sense of compassion. They know how to laugh and have a good time, as well as be serious about the work they are doing. They are by no means perfect, but my sense is that they work well together as a team. I think that makes me like where I am even more- I can see that you don't have to be a "perfect" thearpist/counselor/etc to do good work. It's really about engaging the patients in their therapy and making them feel welcome and willing to open up and learn new skills.

I have learned many new skills by listening and observing in the groups. DBT (Dialectic Behavioral Therapy) is very interesting, and I have been trying to incorporate the ideas that it presents into my daily life, which I am finding to be useful- particularly in dealing with anxiety and depression that creep up in my life.
Learning to be Mindful is a big one. I always knew that staying in the present was better for mental health, but I am finally learning ways to help me stay focused there. Really focusing on drawing myself into the present and not letting my thoughts wander too much (which is a very difficult task!).
I see a lot of myself, both past and present in these kids. In a way it is comforting to me to hear I am not alone in many of my struggles, and has helped me to really accept myself for who I am ("Radical Acceptance"). It definitely makes a difference. I think in a way I can readily understand what they are going through, and be able to be more empathetic. I just have to be careful not to project feelings or assume anything about others- we are all individuals with different life circumstances, perspectives, and thought processes.

Wow. I've written quite a bit. I think I'm ready to stop with my stream of consciousness writing now.

I do believe I am exactly where I am meant to be.