There is so much I would like to express about this young man (Jonathan Su), it almost seems an injustice to put it into words. Still, I will try, as they are all that I have.
Jonathan is like an encyclopedia and a computer with his vast stores of knowledge and his incredible ability to analyze. However, he is also very human and easily connects with people.
I came to Jonathan for help in working through some fears I wanted to address. I didn't know much about hypnotherapy, so he gave me a brief rundown over the phone, sharing a bit about himself and his own interest in the topic. I appreciated his apparent upfront honesty and his openness.
I am skeptical, tending more towards the logical than blind faith, so I was glad he did not come across as too "touchy-feely". Was it luck or fate that I found someone I could relate to so well? Part of it may have to do with the fact that he comes from a somewhat traditional background, as do I. Another large part of it is his ability to identify areas of commonality even when underlying differences exist.
They say a hypnotherapist is supposed to bond with his or her clients. The minute he came out in jeans and a T-shirt, mirroring my own attire, I knew I'd picked the right guy. He was probably glad to rip off his tie and quickly change clothes before opening the door.
In addition to my skepticism, I am also stubborn. Jonathan has shown and/or reminded me of things that should have been obvious but that came more easily to him as an outside observer. In his approach with me, he is patient, yet firm -- the perfect combination. I came to him for help, so he is not about to let me get away with anything. I keep thinking I might be able to put one over on him, but he just uses his powerful stillness to drag me kicking and screaming back to the topic at hand. Okay, I'm exaggerating a bit, as he is never forceful and does everything with the utmost consideration. When I try to be evasive, he calls me on it, sometimes in a creative way, sometimes by just quietly pointing out what I know to be true, even when I won't initially admit it. He can be as stubborn as I am. (I mean that in a good way.)
That said, Jonathan would not pressure anyone to open up about something that caused them real pain or discomfort; he would respect the other person's decision. Not only do I feel safe with him, but it also seems difficult to shock him, which somehow makes it easier to share experiences I would normally not. He intuitively knows when to offer a hand and when to let you see something for yourself.
Jonathan is receptive to new ideas and uses a variety of approaches, knowing there is no single "right answer". He is willing to share the information he has gathered and tailor it to each person, happily providing references to further educate you -- a necessary part of the process for someone with my personality. It is gratifying to know that a person of such intellect chooses to use it to help others. (Remember this is *me* bragging about *him*. He would be too modest.)
On top of his generosity and thoughtfulness, Jonathan is one of the most caring and compassionate individuals I've met. I appreciate the patience he has for me at a time when I am most in need of it. read more