The Quiet Doubt That Grows with You
We all have moments when success feels uncomfortable when instead of joy, we feel
anxiety and self-doubt. For many therapists, especially early in their careers, that feeling
has a name: Imposter Syndrome.
It whispers:
“You’re not ready.”
“You don’t belong here.”
“Someone else could do it better.”
But here’s the truth — growth always feels a bit unfamiliar. When you’ve outgrown your
old pot, it doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means your roots need more space.
Recognizing the Signs
Imposter Syndrome can show up as:
• Over-preparing or second-guessing your clinical work
• Downplaying your accomplishments
• Avoiding opportunities because of fear of being “found out”
• Comparing your journey to others in the field
In supervision and coaching, I often remind clinicians that self-doubt and growth can
coexist. You can be confident and still learning — those truths don’t cancel each other
out.
Reframing the Narrative
When your inner critic asks, “Who do you think you are?”
Respond gently: “Someone who’s growing.”
Because you are. You’ve worked hard, invested deeply, and earned your place in this
field. It’s okay to take up space to stretch your roots and embrace the next level of
your professional growth.
Ready to Rise
If you’re navigating imposter syndrome or feeling unsure about your next career step,
let’s talk about how supervision or coaching can help you reconnect to your confidence
and purpose.
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