Artists & Performers
The Emotional Labor of Performance
Working in the entertainment industry and in the creative arts field can be very fulfilling, but it also has many challenges. I have extensive experience supporting actors, artists, filmmakers, and performers. I understand the unique concerns that are raised by a life in the arts, including performance anxiety, creative blocks, inadequacy, rejection, managing criticism, perfectionism, instability in routine or income, and imposter syndrome.
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I believe therapy can help you develop a more integrated sense of identity, where you will be able to connect more deeply with your authentic self. Despite the difficulties you may be experiencing, I understand that “the show must go on”. The pressure of that notion can be debilitating, and we will find ways of relieving the obstacles you may be facing.
Creative Freedom
For actors, it can be emotionally demanding to step in and out of the roles you are playing. It helps to learn techniques for emotional regulation in order to ground yourself and ease your nervous system. We are all driven to make choices based partly on our unconscious mind. Sometimes, actors can feel emotionally drawn to particular roles that replay unresolved dynamics, particularly within their family. Understanding these motivations can allow for an enhanced creative freedom.
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It is well known that artists experience temporary creative blocks that stunt their ability to perform or artistically express themselves in the way they desire. I approach creative blocks with curiosity and sensitivity rather than trying to find a quick fix. When you put increased pressure on yourself to resolve a creative block, the block often intensifies. Instead, I’ve found that uncovering deeper themes that are causing this impediment and resolving internal conflict allows your creativity to flow again.
Behind the Applause
Even seasoned performers, well known celebrities, and successful artists can experience deeper psychological struggles. You work in a competitive environment and may be worried about failure, or burdened with the constant pressure to “stay relevant”. Being in the spotlight, and often scrutinized, can impact your feelings of self worth. Having to maintain a “public self” and a “private self” can be exhausting. It can start to feel like your self esteem is tied to your external validation from the public.
When we meet, I will provide you with a safe space to explore these underlying internal tensions. Working together allows you to look at yourself in an honest way, and helps us understand how you can navigate the public gaze while preserving a private self that feels more emotionally present and sustainable.
“Don't hide yourself in regret
just love yourself, and you're set”