It’s hard to explain. I feel like I’m in a place that wasn’t built for someone like me. Even when I succeed, I feel like a fraud.

Session Goal:

Establish safety and begin exploring the roots of imposter feelings.

Milestones:

Culturally responsive rapport-building and psychoeducation on imposter syndrome

Tips for Therapist:

Validate the impact of systemic factors on Zanele’s experience. Normalize imposter syndrome while acknowledging racialized dynamics. Explore internalized narratives with care.

Sometimes I hear this voice in my head — like, 'Who do you think you are?' And the worst part is, it sounds like me.

Session Goal:

Identify and externalize internalized critical thoughts.

Milestones:

Cognitive restructuring using sociocultural context

Tips for Therapist:

Help Zanele identify thoughts rooted in systemic bias. Use Socratic questioning to challenge the legitimacy of these internalized messages. Reflect on the origin and impact of these thoughts.

I keep apologizing in class even when I don’t need to. I think I’m scared of being seen as ‘too much.’

Session Goal:

Help Zanele develop alternative, empowering self-statements.

Milestones:

Affirmation building and cultural reframe of assertiveness

Tips for Therapist:

Guide Zanele in identifying culturally congruent strengths and reframing assertiveness as confidence, not arrogance. Use identity-affirming language and practices.

When someone says something subtle — like ‘you speak English so well’ — I freeze. Then I replay it over and over later, wondering if I imagined it.

Session Goal:

Acknowledge racial microaggressions and validate emotional impact.

Milestones:

Processing microaggressions and enhancing emotional resilience

Tips for Therapist:

Create space to name and validate the harm. Use emotional labeling and reframe self-blame. Reinforce her right to discomfort and assertive responses.

I gave a presentation this week. And afterward, I realized I didn’t shrink myself. I didn’t try to disappear.

Session Goal:

Reinforce Zanele’s empowered behaviors and internal shifts.

Milestones:

Integration of new self-concept and behavioral reinforcement

Tips for Therapist:

Celebrate moments of power and visibility. Link these moments to Zanele’s values and identity. Support her in maintaining this momentum.

I still get that voice sometimes. But now there’s another one — the one that says, 'You belong here too.'

Session Goal:

Review progress and solidify internal shifts.

Milestones:

Relapse prevention and ongoing identity affirmation

Tips for Therapist:

Reflect on Zanele’s growth. Co-create a statement or mantra she can return to in moments of doubt. Reinforce her ability to hold both vulnerability and strength.