Confidence Matters: Why Your Vision Therapists Need More Than Just Knowledge

Remember when we first came out of optometry school? We had the knowledge, the textbooks, the clinical hours… but not the confidence. There’s a big difference between knowing something and being able to apply it with clarity and assurance.

When I first stepped into vision therapy, I felt that all over again. I understood the principles. I could explain the concepts. But when it came to putting everything together in a way that truly helped patients, from beginning to end, I felt the gap. It was such a blessing to be able to take the Sanet Course that filled in those gaps and helped me feel so much more confident to take on just about any patient.

That’s why one of the most meaningful things I hear from doctors and therapists who take our Vision Therapy Basics (VT 101) or Advanced Vision Therapy Course (VT 201) is how often they talk about confidence.

Not just more knowledge. 

Not just more tools. 

But confidence.

That shift matters. It changes how they show up for patients, how they problem-solve in the moment, and how much they enjoy doing vision therapy.

Last week, Robert Nurisio wrote a blog post on Imposter Syndrome in Vision Therapy, and he captured this reality perfectly. As he said, patients often “hand you their frustrations, fears, struggles, and dreams, and they’re looking at you like you’re the one who’s going to help them make sense of it all.”

That’s a big weight to carry, especially for vision therapists who, unlike us, don’t have formal schooling to prepare them. Most of them start with enthusiasm and compassion, but they’re expected to absorb everything on the job. And for many, that means quietly battling uncertainty behind the scenes.

This season always brings me back to gratitude. Gratitude for the mentors who helped me figure out VT when I had no roadmap. Gratitude for the patients who trusted me when I was still finding my footing. And gratitude for the vision therapists across the country who show up every day with patience, kindness, and determination.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to support your team—and elevate your practice at the same time—this is a perfect time to give your vision therapists the gift of confidence by enrolling them in one of our courses.

Black Friday: 30% off VT 101 and VT 201 - https://emergent.teachable.com/

Only 3 days left - ends Friday, November 29

Because when they feel confident, your patients feel it too.