A client asked me today if she could use the F word. Of course you can, I replied. Sometimes the F word is the only f*>x%?g word that will do, isn't it? Let it go. Express it. Believe me, in my therapy room there are no words I haven't heard. Express yourself in safety in whatever what you need to.

Two amazing clients today, living with experiences which are almost unimaginable. One has reminded me that abuse takes many different forms. It cannot always be detected by bruises on the outside. Psychological abuse shows no outward signs but can be equally if not more damaging. It works in the same way, leading the abused person to lose all belief in themselves, their self worth and likability.
If you are being abused or know someone who you suspect is the victim of either physical domestic violence or psychological abuse, I have found that the police can be very understanding and helpful, certainly in my area. They will be able to make referrals to appropriate agencies locally, certainly in the UK, who can give advice and practical help.

No matter what we may have done, we all deserve to be listened to and treated with respect.

Please, please, please spare me from people who don't speak their mind. I cannot bear all this pussy-footing around in my personal and business life. With clients it's different. It takes patient exploration to get to the truth. That's my skill and what I'm paid for.

But, if someone has a problem or an issue with me or my business life, then please talk to me about it. We can listen and understand each other, clear up misconceptions, talk things through. It beggars belief what assumptions have been made this week from perfectly innocent remarks, emails and conversations. If you are concerned about something, raise it, talk about it, seek clarification, speak to people who know the truth, the origins. I know I am guilty of the same thing, but it is a very valuable lesson to learn.

Don't make assumptions, don't make 2+2 add up to 105. It helps no-one, least of all yourself.

Brilliant supervision session. Problems aired, mind cleared, decisions made. Action planned - already begun in fact. Also great news that we have a new supporter for my charity, www.homestartwoking.org.uk with a generous donation to our funds. Feeling so much more buoyant. A weight off my shoulders.

Goodness me, I'm beginning to sound like a grumpy old woman! Am off to "dump" some of my client problems on my supervisor and have arranged a session of hypnotherapy for myself with a colleague next week. Self hypnosis is all very well - worked brilliantly for me when I played my tennis matches - but there's nothing like putting yourself in the skilled hands of another trusted therapist.
Meanwhile, a lovely weekend if France to look forward to..... with interesting places to visit and surprises in store, I'm promised.