Within each adult there is an inner child, which is a childlike aspect of the self. Although our chronological age increases each year, there are younger parts of us that do not age. From this perspective, we all have an inner 5-year old, an inner 10-year old, an inner 15-year old, and so on.
Our younger selves are often affected by painful experiences from the past, which can hinder our ability to fully transition into adulthood, and may lead to recurring negative patterns in our lives. Since we are frequently conditioned to ignore or criticize our inner child, it’s common to feel disconnected from this essential part of who we are, and to remain stuck in old ways of relating to ourselves, others, and the world.
Inner child work involves learning how to consciously connect with, and lovingly parent, our younger self. In our work together, I will support you in the process of developing this connection and teach you how to listen to, and meet the needs of, your inner child. When your inner child feels heard and seen, and begins to have its needs met by your adult self, this experience helps to heal old wounds, transform limiting beliefs, and support you in creating a more authentic, fulfilling life.
with Erin Stohl, LMSW