Being Seen: Beyond the Practice

Amid life's most significant changes, a deep level of connection and understanding exists that transcends the practicalities of support. As a doula and social worker, what I do requires providing resources and information to individuals and families whether by connecting them with groups, offering education, or bringing clients food. But what I really see happening in my work has less to do with the tangible skills of guiding someone through breastfeeding positions or connecting a family with housing resources. Not to undermine this importance, but it’s more about what happens underneath those tasks—the part of the work that isn’t measured in cervical dilation and homelessness statistics.

At the core of both of my roles is a deep and unwavering belief that each person deserves to be seen, not just for their basic human needs or their struggles, but for the full spectrum of their humanity. In this work, we provide support holistically and in its entirety by witnessing our clients' vulnerability, strength, their fears, and hopes, acknowledging the emotional and psychological weight they carry while they’re in crisis.

In a world full of burn-out, it's easier to operate as if providing information and resources is enough, and what I’ve learned over time is that these are only the tools. Real transformation happens when one feels seen—not just for the circumstances that need solutions, but for the person they grow into when they are given permission to appreciate what their pain has opened them to, when they are validated in their struggle, when they are able to feel the discomfort of change, and when they are held while they learn to accept, build or rebuild trust in themselves, becoming resilient.

It starts with all of us.

By allowing ourselves intentionally to sit with and explore our painful pasts, our present feelings, our future hopes, we can gradually learn to recognize our own strengths, capabilities, and instincts. As we begin to trust ourselves more, we will likely find that our ability to face challenges and embrace new opportunities grows exponentially. Ultimately, the journey to self-trust is non-linear, ebbs and flows, and is a continuous hard-fought battle. But the support of the people who listen along the way is worthwhile and can make all the difference.