Should I get a new therapist? If so how should I go about it since I'm too afraid to do it?


Question:
I was severely abused as a child and have undergone way more than a lot of trauma as a child and as an adult. Currently I'm coping with post pardum, a recent death of a loved one, and dealing with having my tubes tied since it's life threatening for me to have more children. Needless to say I'm an emotional wreck. I started therapy a year ago while I was pregnant to try to start to cope. Now I always come back from therapy feeling much worse than I did when I started. Now I can't even sleep. If I know a session is coming up, I feel more like a wreck. Half the time she won't let me say what I need to say because "it's wrong" or not possible. It's to the point I don't want to say anything any more. She even tells me it is hard listening to me. I feel like I'm going to get in trouble like I did as a child because she's so stern. When I'm ready to quit we finally make a little progress so I stay. It's hard for me because I'm easily controlled and unable to stand up to people very well.

Answers:
Whoa!! Your therapist should NEVER tell you that what you're feeling is wrong. For one, there is no right or wrong with how you're feeling. If you're feeling that way, then that's that! The only thing I can think of that could be productive of her behavior, is that she may be pushing you to stand up for yourself. Either way, you need to. Think of it this way- you're paying for a product. You start to find the product isn't working, so what do you do? You stop buying it and start shopping around for a *useful* product. You don't even have to say anything to her- just your insurance company. You don't owe her anything, and your health *is* worth it. You deserve to be treated with respect, and you were obviously not getting it from her. You need to move on. Right now, you are letting her keep you down, so try to find the strength to do it now. Some therapists methods don't work for everyone all the time. You are responsible for yourself, so don't feel bad about taking care of yourself. If you sense that she would get angry or upset from losing you as a patient, even after you have explained yourself, then what does that say about her? She doesn't seem like a very patient person in the first place. I can't believe she told you that it's "hard listening to you." That's her JOB!! So make it *your* job to get the hell outta there.

You deserve better treatment- as a person, not just as a patient. You are strong- look what you've already just survived. You can do this. Just focus on the great outcome.

Other Answers:
Yeah I think you need to find another therapist. There is no sense in going to talk to her when you don't even feel comfortable anymore. Try the phone book, or ask her for a referral because you think you've accomplished all possibe with her. So sorry to hear about your current problems. I hope things get better for you.

Don't get into discussion simply don't make the next appointment.
Open the yellow pages and check for other therapists in your area.
Just call one and ask if there's a possibility of an intake appointment.
And don't spill the beans immediately but see if you kinda feel good around someone.
Also go to this website.
http://www.doctoryourself.com
It sounds weird but I found that if you follow his diet suggestion stuff is easier to deal with.
When your under stress your brain just binges on vitamins and stuff.
If the brain gets the vitamins it needs it's an amazing problem-solving tool.
And grieving is hard i know but if you remember them they'll always be with you.
Find people you can share memories with and celebrate the life of the dead person instead of hanging on to the pain of the loss.
Time is a good healer if you eat well.


As a person who has been in and out of different doctor's and counsellors throughout my life, the first thing I'll tell you is that if you don't feel comfortable with your therapist, you are not going to benefit from it. You need to be able to trust your therapist. If she is making you feel worse you should start seeking a new one. Try asking friends and close family members to recommend a person they know is good. Also try finding a therapist that has alot of experience in the areas that you need help in. Do not cancel therapy sessions with your current therapist until you find a therapist you feel comfortable with. It may take a few different people before you find one that works for you, but once you do find that one therapist you really just feel right with you will notice a huge improvement in your mental health. Don't be afraid to look for someone you like and feel comfortable with. I know it can be difficult to stand up for yourself, but if you are already feeling bad you shouldn't make yourself suffer through a therapist you don't feel is right for you. Don't give up the search the right person is out there. I went through about 5 before I found one I wasn't afraid to talk to. You deserve to find happiness. Good luck. Make an appt with new therapist and dont go back to old one simple!


First off I want to say I am so sorry for everything you have been through. It sounds like it's really been hard and overwhelming for you and I think you must be very strong to continue to push forward and reach out for help when you need it.

That said, YES you definitely need a new therapist. I'm in graduate school getting my PhD in Counseling Psychology, and I'm in shock a therapist would say those things to you. But I guess it's like any profession -- there are "good" and "bad" everything's.

Therapy is for YOU -- for you to talk about whatever you need to talk about. You should never feel judged by your therapist. They should certainly never say it's hard for them to listen to you -- that's what they are there for!

Please seek a new therapist immediately. Sometimes it can take a few tries before you find one you really feel comfortable with. As for how to break away from this therapist, I agree with just not making another appointment. If that feels too harsh, plan out something to say and do it over the phone. You could just say you aren't interested in counseling anymore at this time. or you could tell her what you told us -- that she isn't helping you and you don't feel she's been supportive. It might be good for her to hear and get that feedback. It might also feel good for you to let her know how you feel. It's up to you, but I hope you do seek new help from someone you connect with, so you can start to heal. Good luck.




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