Posted by raisinb on September 20, 2008, at 10:31:32
In reply to Partners' feelings about your LT therapy?, posted by lucie lu on September 19, 2008, at 19:35:24
I don't have a long-term partner, but I've been dating in and in a few short-term relationships since I've been in long-term intensive therapy.
Boyfriends have had different reactions, mostly good--but their positive reactions were one of the main reasons they reached "boyfriend" level to start with. I've gotten in the habit of revealing my "mental health" status in the first several dates because it acts as a kind of litmus test for potential partners. If they react negatively, I know they won't be able to accept me. Nor do I want to be with someone who can't understand the idea of working on oneself in an intense fashion. I think I ought to be admired for it, so I require it of them :)
One was extremely interested in what went on between me and my T, since he had anger issues himself. I think he also wanted to know what I'd be like in a very intense relationship. I remember him saying, in an intrigued way, "so someday you'll be that open with me?"
My current boyfriend thinks it's great that I'm in therapy and is impressed that I'm open about my craziness. He says most people have these issues, but won't confront or deal with them. Needless to say, that got him a third date.
poster:raisinb
thread:853000
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20080920/msgs/853070.html