Posted by Amelia_in_StPaul on April 27, 2009, at 13:01:21
In reply to axis two features, posted by deerock on April 27, 2009, at 12:32:18
that's rather vague of her, but perhaps she doesn't want to scare you, since it's clear axis II disorders scare you?
it's not true that personality disorders can't be fixed. they represent a longstanding pattern of maladaptive coping mechanisms, yes, but longstanding isn't the same as intractable. that's whay your therapist uses the term "features"--she's not saying your whole personality is a problem, or even that your coping mechanisms rise to the level of a disorder--just that there are some problems there (and who in therapy doesn't have problems; who in this world, for that matter, doesn't have problems?).
I have features of a personality disorder; I have a loving spouse, a fantastic brain, creativity, and some good sources of support. It's not the end of the world, trust me.
Therapy is really the best way to deal with personality disorder features and I am finding that I am learning to deal better with hurts in this world through therapy.
But a person has to to trust their therapist in order to let the process begin. That may be why she is reluctant to give you the whole dx--there is a stigma associated with these diagnoses, in full evidence here, and she may not want you to think she is burdening you.
As well, the landscape of what personality disorder presents itself may not be clear to her yet. She may just suspect that something is there.
Give her a chance; if she won't talk to you about her process and her thinking, then maybe it's time to see a new therapist. But please don't get hung up on the diagnosis. It's the symptoms that matter.
poster:Amelia_in_StPaul
thread:893029
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20090421/msgs/893032.html