I have often used six metaphors to help my adolescent patients better understand the nature of their psychotherapy and their healing journey.

“When a bone is broken, what heals it?”

Answering this question allows my patients to recognize that the body heals itself with support.

I then explain that my role as a therapist is akin to a cast encasing a broken limb. The therapist helps stabilize the patient, which allows the patient to more easily heal themselves.

“What happens immediately after you scratch an itchy rash?”

If patients have experienced eczema, a rash from poison ivy, or even some irritation from a mosquito bite, they know that scratching at a rash initially feels good but then makes the rash worse. It’s better to avoid seeking immediate relief.

I explain that treating anxiety presents an analogous situation. Just like someone trying to relieve an........

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