This is a picture I took while sitting in the office. At first glance, it doesn’t appear to be anything extraordinary. Sure, it’s decorated in a beautiful scheme that’s both inviting and bright but it appears to be “just another office”.
I am asked what it is that I do…and honestly, this is the best way I know how. I am a professional space holder. I listen intently to what is being said and what is not being said and I translate experiences into words that make sense for those who need it-all the while creating space for grace, growth, & grit.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorates degree, a masters degree, and a few others…Why does this matter at all & why isn’t it bragging? Simply stated it matters because some of the people in my life remind me that God carried me to this place and when I hear “doc” or Dr. Lou I am reminded of the severity of the responsibility & of the grace that I’ve been living in.
A few questions I am asked often:
Do you prescribe medication? Short answer : yes, if needed.
Do you do therapy? Short answer: everything about what I do is a therapeutic interaction both ON & off the job.
Are you a nurse? Short answer: yes, and I’m grateful I am because since 2009 I’ve been paid to do something that comes naturally & that’s care for people.
Who do you work with? Answer: I work with children age 6 & up all the way to geriatric age of 65+. I see people from many walks of life.
What’s the secret to being a successful nurse practitioner? Short answer: For me, it’s been God. Why? It’s always been God because I have no other way of explaining the insight that Holy Spirit gives me in the moment. I realize that for some this may sound hokey or something else, and that’s ok, but for me- – I see and have seen nothing but the evidence all across my life and the lives of my patients time after time. If you haven’t yet experienced the what I have experienced- I can’t expect you to understand. I also won’t villainize you for it either.
Now, back to the seemingly simple environment:
Couch: this is the space where individuals sit with themselves, their feelings, their pain, & their past. They boldly walk into the process of realignment with the truth of who they are.
Clock: The clock serves as a reminder of their present place, their progress, and their purpose. It’s one of the most commonly looked at items in the office yet it’s ever changing much like the brave folks I see every day.
3-Tiered Toys: This cart holds a VARIETY of fidgets which are often the recipients of nervous energy or restlessness. Sometimes a distraction but most often a comfort.
Paintings: Various paintings are placed in the room strategically to inspire & facilitate investigation.
Kleenex box: You can’t see it but the Kleenex box has a post it on one side and is often used as a way of caring for tears, comfort during truths, and as a point of connection.
All this to say that even though you may not seem to be “extraordinary” doesn’t mean you can’t or won’t be used to do the extraordinary. Growing up i wasn’t sure I’d ever be here but thanks to God and the people who have spoken life to me- here I am and God is doing extraordinary things through me and he can and will through you too. Don’t stop short of the miracle ! Be encouraged.
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