Posted by JohnL on June 21, 1999, at 4:47:00
In reply to New ? therapist , posted by jane on June 20, 1999, at 21:58:35
> I wrote in April to say I was struggling trying to relate to a new pdoc (old one retired). I received some very helpful advice from Victoria (et al), and tried to follow thru with the dialog with the new MD.
> Well, since then I changed drugs to celexa (ok,but get migraines) - but I still can't relate to this guy.
> Shouldn't I feel SOMETHING? I keep saying that I don't feel there is anything in particular to talk about,
> and that I haven't a clue what direction we''re going
> and I question what if anything I'm accomplishing.
> HE always says that issues may come up if we keep talking and that he thinks "we" are making progress.
> I just don't get it - after a year and 28 visits shouldn't I have a clue about direction, accomplishments, something? Shouldn't I feel something? Anything? Any suggestions?Hello Jane. I've had several therapists, have seen the good and the mediocre. The good ones have the insight and instinct to very quickly recognize a topic worthy of exploration. They ask a lot of questions, give a lot of examples, don't waste a single minute. Even if you tried to hide something, they can find it easily. They can see right through you. They manage the discussion with definite structure, it doesn't just drift around. A good therapist should be able to discover a lot of things in the very first meeting, and leave you feeling high with new hope and wisdom. In your shoes I would definitely try someone new. Yes, after 28 visits you should have a clue about direction and accomplishments. That should have happened on the 1st or 2nd meeting. A good therapist doesn't wait to stumble onto something to talk about. If nothing else, they should provide the same pep and gusto a teamplayer would experience from a coach's award-winning pep talk before a major game. I've had therapists like yours, I found my dog was better. I know you probably feel some kind of bond with this person after 28 visits, but you might seriously consider trying someone new. Don't wait another 28 visits to see how it goes. If that new person hasn't given you substantial uplifting, wisdom and hope in TWO meetings, get out. Try another until you succeed. With you in heart, stay in touch. JohnL.
poster:JohnL
thread:7577
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990628/msgs/7592.html