The Return of Imposter Syndrome

I’ve recently accepted a part time teaching job with a Master of Counselling program. I am completely terrified. I have a lot of belief in myself as a therapist, I have a strong sense of accomplishment and ability in my job. I’ve even been a clinical supervisor for students in their practicums on many occasions. But, the idea of teaching Master level students how to be therapists is activating some really imposter syndrome feelings.

It’s funny really, I recognize that I possess all of the components that will make me successful. I have the knowledge, the experience, I am an engaging presenter and I have a passion for helping others learn. Yet, I feel overwhelmed by the idea of being the “expert” on a topic and successfully preparing a course to teach. Granted, the school is amazing and my syllabus is set, textbook is chosen and I am paired with a mentor, but I can’t help but feel uncertainty about stepping into this role.

I’m going to keep reminding myself that feeling anxiety about a new situation is normal. This emotion is letting me know that I am entering into an unknown and being successful in this new experience is important to me.

I read an article from The Every Girl with some tips on how to handle Imposter Syndrome. My two favourite recommendations were “create a you’re a badass list” and “call your support system.” I love the idea of tackling these feelings by reminding yourself of all of your accomplishments, as well as looking to those who love and support you for a boost. Not to mention that reaching out to people in your life will most certainly lead to a reminder that we’ve all been in this position.

Having the awareness that I am experiencing a sense of imposter syndrome is key. It allows me to identify it, acknowledge the normalcy of it and persist through it.

June 12, 2022