If you are at all interested in symbolism or narratives, you may be wondering about my logo. In true Narrative Therapy form, there are a few layers of meaning behind my logo that I would like to share with you.
Waves are the foundation of some of my favorite therapy metaphors. Emotions come in waves and learning how to “ride the wave” of emotion is a common metaphor for learning how to cope with our the uncomfortable internal experiences that we call emotions. Urges also come in waves whether we are talking about addiction or OCD. If we can use our coping strategies to help us ride the wave of an urge to use or an urge to take a compulsive action then we can loosen the hold that addiction or OCD has over us. In addictions work we call this urge surfing. Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD encourages a similar approach to either delay or completely avoid the compulsive action.
The ocean has also been given a feminine quality in some cultures, so it seemed a natural choice for a therapy practice with an emphasis on women’s health and wellness. Western literature, for example, often portrays the ocean as a feminine entity. If you are curious, you can read more about that idea here and here.
In art therapy, watercolor is a medium that is fluid and can be unpredictable, and often allows for authentic expression of emotions. In my logo, this watercolor wave is held and contained in a circle. It symbolizes therapy as a holding space for strong emotions. It also symbolizes the overall goal of therapy: helping you to understand and feel more in control of your emotions.
If you are finding yourself swept away by waves of emotion or urges, I hope you will take the step to reach out. There are ways to find calm and peace and predictability in spite of the storm of emotions. I would be honored to be your guide in that journey.
