Climbing Mountains - Healing after Trauma

Today I would like share a poem by a beautiful woman I had the priviledge of working alongside in my role as a Suicide Bearement Counsellor, and now call a friend (as well as trusted and supportive colleague). I think this poem can translate to the Healing from Trauma Journey many of us find ourselves on.

I have had the great honour of working along side some AMAZING Counsellors, Social Workers and Psychologists, in some fantastic teams within Not for Profit Organisations and am so pleased that I have kept in touch with many of them and I am grateful to call them my colleagues and friends as we all move on and UP (reference to "Climbing Mountains" to come) in our careers. It feels important to acknowledge the journeys we are all on as we move through our lives and in different directions. It can be tough working in Organisations, as with any workplace, but to know you have a team of counsellors walking beside you and caring deeply for you really brings a sense of calmness and safety. What I love though is that I have made some wonderful connections that have stood the test of the tough times. We have a shared history of wonderful, rich, rewarding, heartfelt client work and the sometimes difficult organisation experiences, it is a unique relationship that I am grateful for and hold close to my heart.

Perhaps with New Years we also move into a more reflective space, and look back at the year we are ending, who was part of that year and the things we experienced. I know I have reached out to many who were part of my 2025, and who I want to be part of my 2026. I have had a very social few weeks and plans for that to continue into the rest of January and beyond.

Which brings me back to my colleague and friend Dr Katie Ellyn and her book - Thinking in Poetry - Stories from A Self-Evolution. I of course had to buy the book as soon as it was released and found many of the poems beautiful, this one caught my attention, and so with permission I am sharing it with you as I feel it fits with many of the experiences we hold and share. Climbing Mountains and Healing Trauma.

Climbing Mountains

When climbing a mountain

Don't look towards the top of the path

Don't look at how much more work you have to do

Look only at the ground in front of you

At where you must next place your feet

Focus on each step you are taking

And when you feel the need to rest

Turn your back on the journey upwards

Leave closed the door to being disheartened

Look instead on how far you've come

When you only focus on each next step

You will always be surprised

By how much progress you've made

Times of rest and reflection are important

So you can appreciate the work you have done

To come so far

Stopping doesn't mean

You've forgotten the destination

That you've given up on the mountain

It gives you time to honour your efforts

Your resilience, your unwavering heart

To rekindle the fire that burns

For you to meet the summit

And know in every part of your being

That you are worthy of its grand views

To all who I have worked with as colleagues and as clients, I thank you for being part of my "Climbing Mountain" journey - I am very please with the view. Having a strong support network is invaluable, and I deeply appreciate the individuals who make up this essential part of my life. Whether it's family, friends, or colleagues, their unwavering encouragement and understanding provide me with the strength to navigate challenges and celebrate successes. Each person brings a unique perspective and set of skills, enriching my experiences and helping me grow. I am grateful for their presence, as they remind me that I am never alone on this journey. Their support not only boosts my confidence but also fosters a sense of belonging that is crucial for my well-being.

Climbing Mountains, Healing Trauma

As a counsellor, I am here to offer my support to you during challenging times. My counselling services are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can climb your mountain - taking time to reflect on how far you've come, to stay grounded in the present, and to express your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Whether you are facing personal struggles, seeking a space to gain clarity about decisions you need to make, or simply need someone to listen deeply to your story, I am committed to helping you navigate your journey towards healing and growth. Your well-being is my priority, and I encourage you to reach out for the support you desire. Perhaps you'd like some company as you Climb your own Mountain. If so, I invite you to book a Connection Call.

Journal Prompt

How does the poem resonate with you? Can you identify with a time you felt like you were Climbing Mountains? Did you focus on the climb ahead or reflect on how far you'd come? What emotion did the Poem bring up for you? Perhaps you have an old colleague you'd like to reach out to or someone who supported you to climb your mountain?

Purchase the Book or Learn More about Katie - you will find all you need on her website - https://soulfiretherapy.com.au