April is often associated with renewal and growth because it is the month when spring returns to the Northern Hemisphere. But regardless of the hemisphere, a number of celebrations of renewal and growth are now practiced around the globe. The Christian observance of Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and the promise of new life. Passover, a Jewish holiday, marks the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and the beginning of a new chapter in their history. The Hindu festival of Holi celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring.

Renewal and growth are constant goals in therapeutic practice not only for clients, but for ourselves. We can reflect on the importance of ongoing education; achieve greater competence through deliberate practice; practice self-care to refresh and renew; and enjoy the connections and collaborations available in our wonderful community.

We open this issue with something very different and perhaps long overdue. In dealing with the very difficult topic of sexual assault and family violence, Terry Marks-Tarlow and Leanne Domash have produced their first graphic novel, The Eel and the Blowfish. SoP interviewed the authors about the process. Returning is Peter Fraenkel who has written something specially for SoP, based on the book we featured in March, Last Chance Couple Therapy. He expands on a book chapter that explores Working with Infidelity. Matthew Dahlitz also returns with the 12th installment of his discussions of Iain McGilchrist’s epic, The Matter With Things. The question this month is What is Truth? (based on chapter 10). Our other series, Reflections on Milton H Erickson, continues as Richard reviews Opening the Mind, volume 3 from the 16 volumes, The Collected Works of Milton H. Erickson, edited by Ernest Rossi, Roxanna Erickson-Klein and Kathryn Rossi. The final words of this issue are reserved for a special Spotlight article about a therapist at the beginning of his career in Bahrain, Nawaf A. Matar. It is always fascinating to see what is happening in the world of therapy and visiting through the eyes of new therapists.

Sometimes we can feel like a psychotherapist’s work is never done. Maybe that is a good thing. I cannot imagine not doing this work in some way or another. I also know that it is only part of my life – but a very wonderful part.

RICHARD HILL | EDITOR

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