Witnessing

What does it mean to witness? Often when we consider this word, what comes to mind is the negative action of watching a crime occur, or being in the presence of someone who is engaging in an undesirable activity. We are witnesses to crime, we are witnesses to trauma, we are witnesses to danger; but what else? For a narrative therapy standpoint, witnessing has a great deal to do with moving forward. When we do not have witnesses in our lives, it can often feel as though we are completely alone in our struggles. As a counsellor, my role is to witness the lives of my clients in a manner which is non-judgemental, positive, and above all empathetic.

            Within the therapy context, witnessing places a great deal of control back into the hands of the client, as they are invited to share their story in a safe, comfortable environment. Witnessing is a form of active listening, as the witness attends, follows, and offers feedback to the speaker. The witness is curious, without adding their own interpretation to the speakers content. This is an empowering concept for those clients whom have never had to chance, or the space, to share their thoughts and experiences. It can also be an overwhelming experience, as the client recounts those instances in their lives where a witness was not present to offer empathy. When I witness my clients, my intention is not only to gain knowledge of their story, but become their teammate. We are teammates moving forward, and equal moving forward. Through witnessing, I encourage my clients to recognize that they are the expert in the counselling room- they know their story, and they know why they have entered into the counselling relationship. Witnessing is a crucial aspect of my work as a counsellor, but also my work as an active member of society. Without witnesses, acts of oppression are often not reported, and therefore go unheard. I would encourage all of you to consider this definition of witnessing, and apply it to your relationships with loves ones, and with society as a whole.

Submitted by Annelie Nilsson, March 2015

Graduate Intern at Shanti Counselling Centre