Interrogating the concept of the ‘wounded healer’: A deconstruction

This paper begins by introducing the mythical origins of the wounded healer ethos and its relevance to therapy practice today. As a counselling psychologist in training, I consider my relationship with the wounded healer paradigm, and my position of discomfort in embracing the language of wounds and healing as applied to human suffering. This unease prompts a journey of deconstruction, probing the idea of therapists as healers. I visit authors from counselling psychology, critical psychology and psychoanalysis, who contribute diverse narratives of the role and influence of therapists, ranging from professional helper to malign deathmaker. I end with a return to the wounded healer ethos, holding this position lightly, as one of multiple complex and challenging narratives of being a therapeutic helper.