Posted by ElaineM on July 18, 2006, at 10:14:35
In reply to Why I think therapy won't work for me, posted by Deneb on July 18, 2006, at 2:15:28
Hi Deneb: To me, I think that "sensitive" "touchy feely" and "emotional" are all slightly different things. You don't need to want a hug, or feel like you have to cry at every meeting, to be able to get something out of seeing a T.
And, do you know what? In the beginning, the fact that you can even say you're feeling "good" or "bad" is a good thing. It's one step up from saying "I don't know". Though, to be honest, there will be times too when that's all that comes to mind.
One thing I had to learn is that (and many T's keep reminding me) "There is nothing wrong you can say, or not say, in therapy." It's not like a test or essay at school. It's noraml to not be comfortable with that idea too. That's what you work on.
As far as the "right now" stuff, I'd just echo what others have said, and say that you don't have to analyze the past, if that's not what would benefit you right now. You can talk about what is upsetting you, or what you're wondering about, or what you're even happy about, right at the very moment you walk through a T's door. I think it could be very much like how it is for you when you post on the boards -- just regular, back and forth-type, sharing. Just being supportive.
Do you think that it's the acutal word "Therapist" or "Therapy" that is scaring you? The very first time a ever went, the lady said the word "meds" to me and I just about ran out the door in shame. Like, "People actually do this?!". I sort of thought that only characters on tv, or in the movies went to therapists. But I was at a point where I was so miserable that I figured, I don't have a d@mn thing else to lose. I could always quit whenever I wanted, and try again later.
Do you think that you could think of it as a type of experiment? Promise yourself you'll just test it out, knowing that if you give it a shot and don't like it, that you can stop and leave it alone for awhile.
I think alot of people here would like to see you get some relief. They care about you, and wouldn't want you to write-off something that has helped others, helped them, (helped me) before -- even if it's only in a small way.
I don't mean to pontificate, or pressure you -- just something to think about :-)
Take care, Elaine
poster:ElaineM
thread:667935
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20060703/msgs/667974.html