We recently connected with Margaret Rocca and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Margaret , thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Growing up, I struggled with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. These sentiments followed me into my professional life, manifesting as imposter syndrome. It was a pivotal moment during my graduate school training when these feelings peaked. I went through a difficult issue that blended my personal life into my career and I remember thinking “Am I really doing this? Can I really be a good therapist?”. My then husband crossed a very defined boundary and had an affair, but not with just anyone – with someone from my caseload.
Seeking guidance, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and embraced therapy as a proactive measure to navigate through these challenges. Through therapy, I learned to challenge my negative self-perceptions, developing resilience and a deeper understanding of my worth beyond external validation. I dedicated time to self-reflection, integrating mindfulness practices and self-compassion into my routine.
Gradually, I saw a transformation within myself, gaining confidence and clarity in my abilities. In the end I was able to come out the other side with not only the knowledge but the firm belief that my ability to be a good therapist was not reflected by anyone else’s actions or behaviors.
This experience was transformative, not just personally but also professionally. It also solidified my belief in the power of proactive mental health care. Yes I sought help after a crisis but I also stayed in therapy after that in order to build more coping skills and have an unbiased safe space to express my feelings. I often wonder what it would have been like if it had had that space before I needed it.
Witnessing the impact it had on my life ignited a passion to advocate for a similar proactive approach in therapy. It’s this journey that fuels my commitment to shifting the narrative from crisis management to promoting mental wellness, ensuring individuals and couples understand that prioritizing mental health is an investment in their overall well-being, not just a response to adversity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m Margaret Rocca and I’m on a mission to redefine therapy. As a passionate advocate for proactive mental wellness, I believe in flipping the script – it’s not just about managing crises; it’s about thriving every day.
I’ve walked the path of self-discovery and growth, wrestling with self-doubt and navigating through life’s challenges. My journey led me to embrace therapy as a powerful tool for personal transformation. Through this experience, I discovered the immense value of proactive mental health care in fostering resilience and confidence.
With a blend of empathy, understanding, and a sprinkle of humor, I’m here to create a safe space where you can explore, grow, and thrive. My approach is all about supporting you in becoming your best self, not just in tough times but in your everyday life. I offer traditional 50 minute therapy or tailored therapy intensives. It’s time to prioritize mental wellness and rewrite your story. I’m excited to be a part of your journey towards a fulfilling and empowered life
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
In my journey, three qualities that significantly impacted my growth were resilience, self-awareness, and a proactive mindset. Firstly, resilience helped me bounce back from setbacks, allowing me to persist in the face of challenges. Secondly, developing self-awareness through therapy was pivotal; understanding my strengths, weaknesses, and triggers empowered me to navigate situations with clarity. Lastly, fostering a proactive mindset, especially regarding mental health, transformed my approach from reactive to proactive, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
For those starting their journey, my advice would be to embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Cultivate resilience by reframing setbacks as stepping stones for growth. Invest time in self-reflection and seek tools like therapy to develop self-awareness – understanding oneself is key to personal growth. Finally, adopt a proactive stance towards mental wellness. Prioritize self-care, engage in practices that promote mental well-being, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance, even in calmer times. Remember, it’s not just about managing crises; it’s about building a foundation for lifelong mental wellness.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When overwhelm hits, I’ve learned the importance of stepping back and practicing self-compassion. One strategy I rely on is incorporating yoga into my routine. Engaging in yoga poses and mindful breathing exercises helps me ground myself and find inner peace amidst chaos.
Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks is another effective approach, making overwhelming situations more approachable. Self-care becomes my priority during these moments.
Seeking support from loved ones or a professional is another strategy I embrace. Sharing my feelings and gaining different perspectives helps me navigate through overwhelming times.
For anyone feeling overwhelmed, my advice is to begin by acknowledging your feelings without judgment. Find practices that work for you – whether it’s yoga, meditation, journaling, or exercise. Establishing regular self-care routines and boundaries is vital. And remember, seeking guidance or support when needed is a proactive step toward maintaining mental wellness.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ContinuityCounseling.com
- Instagram: @ContinuityCounseling
Image Credits
Nick Brodeur
