Sometimes I like to remind folks that attunement isn’t mind reading, it isn’t perfect call and exact response, it’s just response. It’s shared grief when the response can’t be exactly met. So often folks will say (from the need for help or the hope to help) that a casserole doesn’t change anything…but a casserole isn’t just a casserole…it’s acknowledgement, it’s care, it’s time and labour and thought and often, love. I really think that culturally, we need more casserole, yes

Does this person feel easy to talk to? Am I feeling safe enough as I share what brings me to therapy? Does this person feel steady and seem comfortable hearing what I’m sharing with them? Do I like what I hear when they share with me about their background or approach with clients? Do I feel informed about what to expect as a new client?