The Elephant in the Room: Elephants and Us
When I decided to open Empathic Counselling Centre, I knew that I didn't want to just be another practice. I didn't want to simply meet clients all week and think that I was done (not that there's anything wrong with this - some practitioners are very content in doing so). However, I knew that I wanted more from Empathic. I wanted Empathic to be involved in the community. I felt the drive for accessible services and community education. Empathic was to be a symbol of non-judgemental, compassionate care for all, in any means possible. As I sat in the middle of Chapters on that rainy Monday afternoon, venturing into this new chapter in my life, I knew that Empathic needed to be symbolized in such a way to match my big dreams.
This is where the elephant comes into play. Empathic's logo is a spin of two things: The letter 'J' (because who doesn't love a little ego boost- us therapists are not immune to it) and the head of an elephant. Do you see it?
I chose the elephant as Empathic's logo/symbol simply because of everything that an elephant stands for. It goes without saying that it only makes sense to have an elephant to represent Empathic Counselling Centre as they are a symbol of empathy. Numerous observations have shown elephants helping other elephants in distress, assisting the injured, plucking tranquilizer darts out of other elephants and spraying dust on their wounds. I feel that the ability to show empathy truly helps the therapeutic process because it demonstrates a deep level of acceptance and understanding.
Going hand-in-hand with empathy is compassion. Elephants are compassionate. There have been many documented sightings of elephants showing compassion to animals inside and outside their species. Compassion is shown through their ability to protect and even save other animals. Compassion is one of Empathic's driving force in services that we provide. Without compassion, how can you expect acceptance in the therapy room?
The elephant is a sign of strength. In times of difficulty and when you are feeling at your lowest point, it is through finding your inner strength, you are able to lift yourself from the depths of despair. It is your strength that keeps you going, even when you think that you simply cannot. It is your strength that opens your eyes to your capabilities and gives you courage.
Elephants have strong family ties and are community oriented. Female elephants look after the calves of other female elephants, creating an altruistic community. Elephants even invite non-family members to join their herd if they see a single elephant. In a time where we are isolated and forget the importance of giving back and creating bonds, Empathic hopes to liaison with the community to foster inclusivity and holistic care outside the therapy room.
I can go on and on about how elephants also symbolize stability, tenacity, power, reliability, happiness, sociability etc etc. etc., but that would result in a ridiculously long essay where I simply wouldn't know where to end. I highly encourage you to research about these magnificent creatures and just fall in love with them! I cannot think of a better way to express Empathic Counselling Centre's goals and vision without the use of an elephant.