The question seems innocent, but it can carry a weight that lingers. I’ve faced it myself, feeling both proud and vulnerable as I navigate the layers of my identity. For many, this journey toward self-discovery and empowerment is deeply personal—and sometimes painful.

One client I worked with, Sarah, came to therapy after years of feeling “othered.” Born and raised in the UK, she had spent her life being asked where she was “really” from, despite identifying as British. Her parents had immigrated years before, and while she celebrated her cultural roots, she often felt her identity reduced to a stereotype.
The discrimination Sarah faced wasn’t always overt. It was the casual comments at work, the assumptions about her upbringing, and the way she was overlooked for promotions despite being highly qualified. Over time, these experiences chipped away at her confidence. She began questioning her worth and doubting whether she truly belonged.
In therapy, Sarah explored these feelings in a safe and supportive space. Together, we unpacked the impact of these microaggressions and how they had shaped her self-perception. Through reflective exercises, she began reconnecting with the parts of her identity she had been made to feel ashamed of. She found ways to assert her voice, celebrate her heritage, and challenge internalized doubts.
Counselling offered Sarah a path to empowerment. It helped her shift from a place of frustration and hurt to one of resilience and pride. She started advocating for herself at work, initiating conversations about inclusion, and even mentoring others who felt similarly unseen.
Sarah’s journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of self-discovery. When we face the discomfort of exploring who we are, we unlock the strength to rewrite our narratives. In embracing her full identity, Sarah found belonging not in others’ perceptions but within herself.