Posted February 21, 2025

Introduction: Living in the Moment as a Mental Health Clinician:

We’ve all heard the old adage, “Live every moment to its fullest,” but if you’re like me, understanding what that means can be mind-boggling without understanding how we as human beings operate. When we try to apply it to our work, it gets even harder because, often, work is a means to an end—paying bills, achieving goals, or simply surviving. Yet, adding elements of fulfillment and presence can greatly enrich a practitioner’s life and their clinical work.

The concept of being human has become almost synonymous with the “thinking species,” but it’s essential that we shift into the “being species” if we are to truly live fully in each moment. “Being” means focusing on this very moment; being here, right now. The past and future cease to hold their paralyzing power over us. We are no longer held hostage by our thoughts.

So many of us fall into the trap of allowing thoughts to dominate our lives. Right now, try this for practice: “The sky is green.” Really tell yourself that for a moment and try to make yourself believe it. Does that make it true? Not at all! The same goes for the days you show up for your work and think, “I just can’t do this,” or, “I can’t stand xyz” (fill ill the xyz with the thing that plagues you about your day right now). Just because the thought shows up, doesn’t mean it has to be our absolute truth.

By using the simple AWAKE tools, you can step out of controlling thoughts and into the power richly contained in the present moment. As a clinician, this means being more present with clients and with yourself. Each second has the power to greatly enrich your life if you allow it. Practice, reflection, and consultation for consolidation is key to making the skills stick! Here’s how you can bring the AWAKE tools into your practice and personal life:

A—Attend to Now
As a clinician, tuning into your current experience and the present moment is key for both your own well-being and your work. Begin by using your breath as an anchor. Notice the rhythm of your heartbeat or the sensation of your body in the chair. If you’re in a session and your mind is racing, pause. Is there something in the moment that’s causing you to feel anxious, distracted, or overwhelmed? Or are you being pulled into past or future concerns? Focusing on now can help you reduce unnecessary stress and improve the quality of your sessions with clients. Your clients will also benefit from your ability to model this mindful presence, fostering a sense of safety and connection.

W—Walk in Willingness
As clinicians, we are constantly called to step into unknown spaces with our clients, especially when working through difficult topics. Willingness means being open to the flow of each moment, whether it brings joy or discomfort. When you are confronted with a difficult client or session, be willing to show up fully, without judgment. Instead of resisting a challenging dynamic, be like water and move with it. Ask yourself: Can I show up with genuine empathy and curiosity, meeting my client where she is today? By embodying willingness, you can invite your clients to do the same in their healing journeys, and work together in a way that’s fluid and compassionate.

A—Allow Your Thoughts to Come and Go
As clinicians, we often experience a flood of thoughts during sessions—whether they are related to client issues, our own emotions, or outside stressors. Allowing our thoughts to come and go means recognizing that just because a thought arises, doesn’t mean it requires immediate action or belief. Are all thoughts bad? Absolutely not! But recognizing when your thoughts are unhelpful—such as judgments or negative self-talk—can help you avoid carrying unnecessary mental baggage into sessions. By filtering thoughts, you can create space to be more grounded, clear, and intentional in your clinical work. For clients, you can use this tool to help them learn that they don’t have to be defined by their thoughts.

K—Keep Your Senses Connected
As you practice being present, pay attention to your senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, and even movement. Your senses offer a direct link to the present moment. If your mind starts to wander or you feel overwhelmed, tune in to what you can see, hear, or feel around you. In session, this could mean noticing the room’s atmosphere or grounding yourself with your own sensory experiences. If you feel anxiety rising, try taking a few deep breaths and observe the world around you. This practice not only helps you stay grounded, but it can also serve as a model for your clients to use during moments of distress. When we are able to briefly connect with our senses and tune in, we can experience less overwhelm, even during emotionally charged moments.

E—Expect to Be Astonished
When you consistently apply these tools, the richness of each moment becomes more apparent. As you work with clients, you may start to see unexpected breakthroughs, moments of profound understanding, and shifts that seem magical. The more you practice the AWAKE tools, the more you become attuned to these moments, both for yourself and your clients. In your clinical practice, this astonishment isn’t just about your progress—it’s about how the therapeutic space can continually surprise you with new insights and healing potential. When you show up as your authentic self, expect the unexpected; trust that each session has something to teach you, and move into this space with eagerness to uncover the next gem of wisdom.

Conclusion: Bringing AWAKE into Your Clinical Practice

This may seem like a lot to take in and master right away. It will take practice and patience, just like anything worth learning. Start by focusing on one component at a time, perhaps practicing one tool each day or week, gradually incorporating the others. Reflect on your progress through regular journal entries, or create reminders to keep these tools in your conscious awareness. Then, consult with a trusted professional or mentor to help consolidate; talk about what is or is not helping and how you can broaden the application in your life. Through daily practice, you’ll become more skilled at maximizing the power of each moment, both in your own life and in your work with clients.

By embracing the AWAKE tools, you can experience a richer, more mindful approach to life and clinical practice, ultimately enhancing your ability to be present with your clients and with yourself.