Therapy can feel intimidating—especially when you’re dealing with intrusive thoughts, overwhelming emotions, or trauma. In this Q&A, MindWell NYC therapist Leah Flanzman shares how she helps clients feel safe, understood, and supported while doing some of the hardest work.
How do you help clients talk about scary intrusive thoughts safely?
Answer:
From the very beginning of our work, I help clients understand that thoughts are not facts. Having a scary or intrusive thought doesn’t make it true or define who you are. When we say these thoughts out loud in a safe space, they often lose much of their power.
How do you balance compassion with exposure work?
Answer:
Compassion is the root of my approach to exposure work. I know I’m asking clients to face some of their biggest fears and by keeping their “why” at the center and reminding them of their strength and capacity, we move toward freedom from OCD in a way that balances compassion, empathy, and encouragement.
How do you approach emotional intensity in therapy?
Answer:
No emotion is too intense for therapy and I believe that every feeling shows up for a valid reason. I help clients understand what their emotions are communicating, while also building skills to regulate intensity when it’s no longer effective.
How do you help clients slow things down when feelings spike?
Answer:
When feelings spike, I help clients slow the moment down using self-soothing tools and distress tolerance skills. Clients and I engage in grounding exercises, sensory resets like ice, scent, or breathwork, and mindfulness practices. Taking a brief pause and a shift in attention can bring the emotional intensity down and allow us to better understand how to move forward.
Why is trauma work meaningful to you?
Answer:
Trauma work is some of the most powerful and transformative therapy I get to do. It’s a true privilege when clients trust me with their stories, and I am continually moved by the strength and resilience they bring to their healing.that feels steady, healthy, and sustainable.
