Posted by Emmylou on January 8, 2004, at 11:52:35
In reply to Re: Therapist Orientation? CBT or psychodynamic? » gardenergirl, posted by mattdds on December 26, 2003, at 17:59:34
This thread contains some very interesting discussions. Thought I'd talk briefly about my experiences. I agree with those who have written that it's a matter of preference concerning the *approach* one wants and/or needs to take to address their own issues.
I had been seeing a CBT therapist now for over 2 years. When I started seeing him, I thought I'd be done in a matter of months. I'm eternally grateful to my therapist b/c he's helped get me through so many downs in my life. What I've noticed is that while I've gained some really practical and invaluable skills at combatting and addressing thoughts and situations -- so much so that at times my responses are automatic -- I'm beginning to feel that the changes occurring are not as "deep" as I'd like them to be. What I mean is that I've conditioned myself to respond to situations in ways I've learned are effective, but I'm not truly convinced that I am an all-around ok person that is worthy of love.
I've started seeing a therapist ("analyst") to help me understand the "whys." I know what situations trigger my negative thoughts and I'm vigilant, but I don't truly understand why I have these negative thoughts to begin with. I do have ideas, and I want to explore them, and I believe that "analysis" is the way for me personally. I believe it's an avenue for self-exploration, and that the more one understands himself, the better the prospects for lasting change.
poster:Emmylou
thread:293462
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040102/msgs/298117.html