Getting to the I In My Stori

It all came to a head one summer day while visiting family when I found myself in the middle of a very big disagreement. Instead of reasoning like an adult and staying in my lane, I reverted to a bossy kid, telling everyone how they should live their lives. Needless to say, my sanctimonious approach didn’t go over so well. 

Being enemy #1 in the family was unpleasant – unbearable, actually. And I didn’t know how to sit with it. I didn’t know how to get past it. And because the fall out was massive and there wasn’t a quick fix in sight I felt completely isolated and without an ally. 

So I did the only thing I could think to do: I looked for a therapist in hopes of someone taking my side! (Because, how could I be in the wrong?) 

But what started as “3-5 sessions” turned into years of deep inner work. Turns out, my need for control was a distraction from feeling my disowned sadness. Sadness covered up by years of forced smiles, beginning in childhood. Even though I began therapy because of family drama, over time, I was able to own up to the fact that the work wasn’t about the people on the outside, it was about who I am on the inside, and what I need to grow. 

And an amazing thing happened. Committing to my own self-examination freed me. It gave me useful tools. It showed me a new way of seeing myself and the role I play in various dynamics.  Eventually I learned to be okay with unpleasant feelings (even sadness), curveballs, and growth. 

Getting to a place of acceptance with the complexities of the human experience is really the biggest work any of us can do. So why not do your work now? The complexity of our modern lives boils down to this simple truth – with the unprecedented amount of stressors we all face daily, there's never been a better time to prioritize your mental health. 

I started Stori in the good company of mission-driven allies who are passionate about increasing access to top-quality, more affordable, compassionate care. Together, we're so very proud of the place we've built for you and your Stori. We're here, and we’re ready to hear it!

Christy Desai

Christy Desai, Stori Founder & Therapist