Posted by Snowie on May 20, 2000, at 9:49:52
In reply to Re: Psychotherapy v. CBT, posted by bob on May 19, 2000, at 23:46:45
Thanks, Bob and BoBB. I've just started treatment with a psychologist who specializes in CBT. I found a good link below to a site that lists and discusses the different types of therapies available.
During my first appointment last Monday, he gave some literature to read and a relaxation tape. I presently take Xanax, which admittedly is no cure, but it allows me to have a functional life. He asked me how much Xanax I take per day (3 mg.), and he said that is a lot. (I disagree.) I also want to try Klonopin again in the future. (BTW, he's not certain as to what my disorder is, but a psychiatrist colleague of his talked with me for a little over an hour a few weeks ago, and that was his conclusion. I personally think I have social and general anxiety, an occasional panic attack, and perhaps ADD).
My big concern is that he seems to be anti-medication. It appears from things he said and from some of the literature he gave me that with CBT I should be able to eventually wean off medication. Unfortunately, I just don't see that happening anytime in the near future. I envisioned CBT working with medication, not as a replacement or substitute for it. Fortunately, I remember what my life was like before Xanax, and all the CBT in the world won't change that.
In sum, I'm not certain if CBT is the right form of therapy for me, particularly if withdrawal of anti-anxiety medication is the ultimate goal of CBT.
Snowie
http://www.psychcentral.com/therapy.htm
poster:Snowie
thread:34042
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000517/msgs/34113.html