I didn’t feel I clicked with many people at secondary school and regularly felt it was best to spend my lunch times alone in my art class, drawing and listening to music. This was my safe haven – where nobody would bother me and I didn’t have to try to fit in. I struggled to find my identity and felt at the time this was the best way for me to cope with my lack of self-confidence.

I’d regularly listen to ‘Take off your pants on jacket’ on repeat, and it was then I realised music could be a part of who I am and I could take pride in the music I loved. As a result of my taste in music, I was able to meet people with similar tastes and I no longer felt alone. I’d attend an under 18 rock night, where I was given the opportunity to be my true self and meet with those with whom I could identify.

It was when I went to university, I really noticed my connection to music and the importance of the lyrics and their meaning for me – I started to settle with my identity. I knew that no matter how tough things got, I could always rely on music to provide me with a level of support. It was also during this time I felt able to display my love for superheroes by reading graphic novels and researching superhero origins. However, it was not until I decided to embark on a counselling course that I discovered their depth and how they’ve helped me to understand myself and those around me.

Despite having some tough times through school and university, I knew I could hold my head high when I had time to focus on music and make sure it played a big part in my life. When I go to gigs, I’m not there to drink and go crazy – I’m there to connect with the band and the lyrics, and feel the sense of connection with the crowd and how we all have that shared experience of enjoying the same music. When I recently lost my brother, I attended a local gig which was a band called Falling With Style and I instantly felt the connection I craved because despite nobody knowing the pain I was going through, I could connect with the music and lyrics and that’s all that mattered.

I now bring music and superheroes into my work as a counsellor as they can sometimes give an important insight into a persons world: where they have come from, where they wish to go and where they may have stopped on the journey. The simple question “what would your superpower be?” can really open doors into awareness of what a person feels they need, or what they would like to change. I enjoy discussing music with clients as their connection with the music can open my awareness to their processes and values. Despite my love being alternative/punk rock music, I believe it’s possible to connect with all forms of music and lyrics – Each person connects with music in their own way, and that’s what really adds the value.

I’ve always been known as “the quiet one” but in recent years I’ve learnt the importance of talking about feelings and sharing them with those around me. It’s difficult to take the first step, but with practice it is possible. I’ve also learnt to really value the time with those I love, as you never know what’s around the corner.

– Laura