I wrote the following statement over 20 years ago.
It could be called a Mission Statement.
I call it a Welcome Mat.
And, it’s still true:
“I welcome all, regardless of diverse race, culture, class, ability, religion, gender and sexual orientation. My goal is to provide a safe and confidential environment for you (or you and your loved ones) to explore the problems you are facing and to work with you to discover long-term solutions. I seek to foster your emotional, mental and relational growth in an atmosphere of trust and respect. I have the background and training to help you with your spiritual growth if you so desire.”
These days I ask poets to help me describe my counseling and coaching practice philosophy.
Here’s a poem from Rumi:
The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
— Jelaluddin Rumi, translation by Coleman Barks