The Therapist Poetry Podcast

Self-acceptance is a journey that many of us struggle with, especially when faced with cultural transitions, emotional struggles, and the challenge of feeling like we don’t quite belong. In this conversation, integrative counselor Star shares her personal journey through poetry, reflecting on identity, emotions, and self-discovery.

A Personal Journey Through Change

Star’s story begins in Thailand, where she was born. Later, she moved to the UK at the age of 14, carrying with her the cultural influences of her homeland while adjusting to a new way of life. Years later, she returned to Thailand as an adult, only to feel disconnected from both her past and present. When she moved back to the UK, emotions she had buried for years began to surface.

She found herself struggling with feelings of sadness and anger, emotions that once served as coping mechanisms. As a child, anger was a way to feel seen, but as an adult, she learned to mask her true emotions with a smile. The internal battle of wanting to embrace her whole self while still trying to fit in led her to writing.

Writing as a Means of Expression

During quiet nights, when her husband was asleep, Star found solace in writing. It became a way to process her emotions, to explore who she truly was beyond the roles she played in daily life. The act of writing wasn’t just about expressing pain; it was about understanding herself and ultimately moving toward healing. One of her most impactful pieces from that time, The Black Sheep, encapsulates her struggle with identity and self-acceptance.

The Power of “The Black Sheep”

In The Black Sheep, Star describes the feeling of being an outsider, of wearing a metaphorical coat to blend in, to be accepted. But over time, that coat, meant for protection, became suffocating. The poem reflects the moment she decided to embrace her true self, to shed the protective layers and allow her authentic identity to be seen, imperfections and all.

This theme of wanting to belong resonates with many, not just those from multicultural backgrounds. The fear of rejection, the struggle of feeling like something is inherently wrong with oneself, and the deep desire to be accepted for who we truly are—these are universal emotions.

From Poetry to Healing

Looking back, Star realizes that her poetry wasn’t just an expression of pain, but a way of discovering what she truly wanted: to stop hiding and to fully accept herself. The journey wasn’t instant, and it took years to truly embody the change she first wrote about. But now, a decade later, she stands in her truth.

As an integrative counsellor, Star now helps others who face similar struggles. Whether from cultural transitions or personal insecurities, many of her clients experience that same sense of “otherness.” Because she has lived through it, she is able to connect with and guide others on their paths toward self-acceptance.

A Message for Those Struggling

Star’s final message is a powerful reminder: If you feel like you’re not quite right, if you believe something is wrong with you, know that it didn’t start with you. The feelings of self-doubt and rejection often stem from external influences, not from who you truly are.

And most importantly, you don’t have to go through it alone. Seeking help is not a weakness—it’s a step toward healing.

Final Thoughts

Star’s story is a testament to the power of self-expression, the importance of embracing our true selves, and the impact that writing can have on personal growth. If you find yourself struggling with identity or acceptance, consider putting your thoughts into words. Whether through poetry, journaling, or simply speaking about your feelings, acknowledging your truth is the first step toward healing.

If you’ve ever felt like a black sheep, remember: You don’t have to hide anymore. Your story, just like Star’s, is worth sharing.