Posted by Dinah on September 29, 2009, at 7:53:21
In reply to Don't know how to heal from bad psychotherapy, posted by MadelynRose on September 28, 2009, at 12:24:36
I always tell my son not to beat himself up over what's past, but to see those things as an opportunity to learn and grow. I know it's easier to tell him than to do it myself, but somehow telling him - and believing it - helps me to apply it to myself. What's done is done, and nothing can change it. What you can change is the future.
So, you've learned that you don't find psychoanalysis helpful, and you feel that CBT might be helpful. You've learned that if you've given a therapist a chance, and are convinced that he doesn't offer what you need, that it is ok to thank him and move on. I think people tend to think they need to stay with whatever therapist they start with, but they really don't. It's a matter of chance what kind of therapist you find when you start. Now you know what you find helpful, you'll be able to try again. But again, if the therapist isn't a good match you aren't obliged to stay. So much of a good therapist match is chemistry, even if you find one offering the sort of therapy you are looking for.
I'm surprised that you can't find a therapist who primarily practices CBT since so many do. There are some good CBT workbooks out there, depending on your particular challenges, but for many people having a therapist in person is more effective.
This can be another sort of opportunity. Does "Feeling Good" give you any guidance on what to do when you're feeling the sort of feelings you're feeling now?
poster:Dinah
thread:918829
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20090907/msgs/918936.html