When you’re looking for a therapist you will inevitably see the phrase “You are welcome here.” It’s often intended as a gesture of inclusivity, a way to create a safe atmosphere and affirm that all identities, stories, and struggles are invited into the room. However, this well-meaning phrase subtly reinforces a dynamic we at Juniper are trying to dismantle—the power imbalance between counsellor and client.
Let’s take a deeper look.
The Power Behind “Welcoming”
To welcome someone is to open a door you own. It implies that the space is yours to offer. While that may be appropriate at a dinner party, it is not appropriate in therapy. When a counsellor says “you are welcome here,” it places them in the position of power—as the one who grants entry, sets the tone, and offers permission.
When a client comes to counselling you are already feeling vulnerable. You might be navigating pain, shame, or uncertainty. In that moment, it is you taking the risk. The rent might be paid by the therapist, but the emotional territory belongs to you- the client.
Therapy Shouldn’t Be a Room You’re Welcomed Into—It Should Be a Space earned by trust
It’s actually the counsellor’s job to earn your trust, and an invitation into your world. You are not a guest in our practice; we are visitors in your healing journey.
When a Counsellor says “you are welcome here,” they are unintentionally reinforcing a hierarchical mindset—this space is mine, and I’ve decided you may enter. At Juniper we take a more trauma-informed, relational approach by asking instead: May I join you? How can I earn a seat at your table?
From Welcoming to Earning Trust
We need to earn the right to be in your story.
That right doesn’t come from having degrees, licensure, or even good intentions. It comes from deep listening, cultural humility, attunement, and repair. It comes from being invited in.
So instead of saying “you are welcome here,” we say:
“If you choose to share space with me, it’s an honour.”
“This time is yours, and I’m here if you’d like me to be part of it.”
“I hope to earn your trust—not assume it.”
These phrases return agency to the client. They signal that therapy isn’t something done to you, but something done with you, and at your pace.
The Subtle Shift That Changes Everything
Language matters. Especially in a field built on the power of words. Small shifts like moving from welcoming to inviting, from hosting to joining, can quietly transform how safe, seen, and respected you feel.
When you counsellor is mindful of power — we can being to create the kind of space where healing can genuinely happen.
Not because we said “you’re welcome here”—
But because we asked, “May I come in?”—and waited to be welcomed.
At Juniper Counselling, we believe clients are the ones who open the door. We’re here to listen, earn trust, and walk with you—on your terms.
💚 Juniper Counselling Port Moody
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