IN THIS EPISODE:

In this episode of Out of Session with Kindman and Co., hosts Elizabeth and Logan discuss the importance of therapists embracing their own humanity and messiness. They challenge the societal expectation that therapists must always appear composed and all-knowing.

SUMMARY:

In this episode of Out of Session with Kindman and Co., Elizabeth and Logan dive into the topic of how therapists are not immune to the messiness of life and why it's healthy to acknowledge that. They share their own vulnerabilities, discuss expectations placed on therapists to be all-knowing, and explore the importance of authenticity in therapeutic relationships. The conversation takes a light-hearted turn with references to SpongeBob SquarePants and personal anecdotes, emphasizing that embracing one's humanness can lead to better connections both in and out of therapy sessions.

TOPICS:

Being Human, Therapy for Therapists, Counseling, Personal Journey, Mental Health Support

KEY FIGURES:

Elizabeth Taylor, AMFT

Logan Kim, AMFT, APCC

Kindman & Co.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Therapists Are Human—and That’s Not a Problem

Therapists experience anxiety, messiness, uncertainty, and stress just like everyone else. This humanness doesn’t undermine therapy; it strengthens it.

2. Perfection Creates Shame, Not Healing

When therapists are expected to be “all-knowing” or emotionally flawless, it can unintentionally reinforce shame and unrealistic expectations for clients.

3. Authenticity Builds Real Connection

Being honest, present, and emotionally real in the room allows for deeper relational safety and more meaningful therapeutic work.

4. Growth Happens in the Yuck

Healing isn’t about avoiding discomfort—it’s about tolerating it together. Messy moments, missteps, and emotional “muck” often create the richest opportunities for growth.

5. Joy, Play, and Lightness Matter Too

Therapy isn’t only about pain and heaviness. Moments of humor, playfulness, and shared laughter help foster connection and emotional regulation.

KEY QUOTES:

1. “The therapist is also a mess, and this is actually very healthy.” — Elizabeth

2. “I think there’s this kind of expectation of therapists being all knowing or having their lives completely together, and that’s just not possible.” — Elizabeth

3. “Perfection is never feeling anxious or never feeling bad or never making a mistake, and it’s just unrealistic to set that goal.” — Logan

4. “It brings a space into the session to be real and to actually connect and grow.” — Elizabeth

CALL TO ACTION:

Today's episode is bringing you to Northeast Neighborhood Outreach (NENO). They are a grassroots organization working to support and advocate for unhoused people in Northeast LA. Their goal is to improve the lives of those who are currently unhoused in northeast LA through weekly outreach, connection to services, and policy advocacy. You can view their website at neno-la.org

Look out for the transcript of this episode on the Kindman & Co. blog and sign up for the Kindman & Co. newsletter to stay connected.