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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Twinleaf on September 2, 2012, at 19:50:03
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do......., posted by emmanuel98 on September 2, 2012, at 18:46:47
It's great to hear how much better things are for you. I am very familiar with psychodynamic therapy, in which the relationship to the therapist is the principle factor helping towards recovery, but much less so with DBT. In my minimal knowledge of it, I think it is about training oneself to correct distorted thinking. I have the impression that DBT can help one do this better than other forms of therapy, but I don't know if this is accurate.
I have Lamictal on my list as the next thing I would try if I became suicidal again - it's definitely one of the most well- thought- of medications.
I know from previous posts that your therapist is in his 70's; mine is about to be 69,. It is awfully hard to think that they won't always be available.
Posted by Twinleaf on September 2, 2012, at 23:44:54
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Twinleaf, posted by Phillipa on September 2, 2012, at 10:14:26
Your comment about the lack of psychodynamically- oriented therapists in your area made me curious. I looked up therapists for your city, and found 290 who had LSW, MSW, PsyD or PhD degrees, and who stated that they practiced in a variety of ways, including psychodynamically. I know this is just a basic laundry list of therapists, but, if you were interested, there are sure to be at least a few excellent ones.
Posted by emmanuel98 on September 3, 2012, at 19:20:35
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » emmanuel98, posted by Twinleaf on September 2, 2012, at 19:50:03
> It's great to hear how much better things are for you. I am very familiar with psychodynamic therapy, in which the relationship to the therapist is the principle factor helping towards recovery, but much less so with DBT. In my minimal knowledge of it, I think it is about training oneself to correct distorted thinking. I have the impression that DBT can help one do this better than other forms of therapy, but I don't know if this is accurate.
DBT, unlike CBT, isn't just about distorted thinking but focuses on how to sit with emotions and not let them overwhelm you. There's a big emphasis on mindfulness and meditation. It's sort of rooted in Buddhism. I know my DBT therapist is a Buddhist and the person who developed DBT (Marsha Linehan) was greatly influenced by Buddhist practice.
>
> I know from previous posts that your therapist is in his 70's; mine is about to be 69,. It is awfully hard to think that they won't always be available.He's 72 or 73 now. He's in great shape and hasn't had so much as a cold in the years I've been seeing him. He's working only part-time now and says he has no plans to retire, but...things can happen. At least now I feel that if something did happen it wouldn't completely derail me. But there is something very sad about knowing that this person who is so important in your life is not really in your life. I couldn't visit him in the hospital, couldn't probably go to his funeral. It makes me sad to think about this. I just hope he stays healthy long enough for me to end therapy.
Posted by Phillipa on September 3, 2012, at 20:12:13
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Phillipa, posted by Twinleaf on September 2, 2012, at 23:44:54
Do they take medicaire & United Healthcare? Many are pay only. 4 I saw took medicaire had Phd's and didn't give two hoots about the patients. The worse was Nona Patterson? Do you have a link? Thanks Phillipa
Posted by Twinleaf on September 3, 2012, at 20:39:05
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Twinleaf, posted by Phillipa on September 3, 2012, at 20:12:13
The one I found was " "Therapists in Charlotte" ".
Posted by Phillipa on September 3, 2012, at 20:50:53
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Phillipa, posted by Twinleaf on September 3, 2012, at 20:39:05
Thanks will take a look. I saw a new grad once in in ER and unfortunately she worked only for the hospital. She was young but we clicked. Phillipa
Posted by 10derheart on September 3, 2012, at 21:00:24
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Twinleaf, posted by Phillipa on September 3, 2012, at 20:12:13
All say they take Medicaire. A random check shows United also. I love Psychology today's listings because there is so much info. You can see their faces, age, education, experience, emphasis, and more.
You can narrow down further by focus on your issues on the left side, like OCD, Anxiety, etc.
I hope you pursue this. I really think talking to someone regularly would help a lot - probably more than any med.
Posted by Twinleaf on September 3, 2012, at 21:34:25
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Twinleaf, posted by Phillipa on September 3, 2012, at 20:50:53
I know you have made attempts to find a therapist before which haven't worked out.. I agree with Tender that talking regularly to someone who is a good fit will do much more than any medication can do, and you do have quite a few major interpersonal stresses, both past and present, which therapy can help resolve. You do need to have sufficient motivation and interest to go through a number of trial interviews; there really isn't another way to find someone who is right for you. I hope you consider it seriously!
Posted by Willful on September 4, 2012, at 11:17:35
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do......., posted by Twinleaf on September 3, 2012, at 21:34:25
I can't agree more with Twinleaf and Tender, Phillipa.
Don't count out MSWs though-- even if their training isn't as intellectual as that for psychologists, they can be wonderful and helpful individuals. It isn't so much the amount of reading that someone does, or even the ability to write a research paper-- it's more a personal fit, and an ability to reach out and awaken someone's own capacities for growth and resilience.
It may take seeing quite a few people before you find the right person, but you shouldn't let that discourage you, or take it as a sign that there's no one out there for you. You may be a very particular person, and be looking for a very special response. I know I was!
but you just need to persevere, if you're that kind of person. It took me forever and many wrong starts and years to find the right person- but I didn't know that fit was so important. It's only my own experience and some of the more recent writing in the field that's begun to show this.
So you're ahead of the game. And don't count yourself out because of age! 60 is only a number- my bf's mother is 87 and has more energy and is more involved in the community and in activities than I am. She's on volunteer boards, and plays mahjong (not my cup of tea, but so what?) with friends and even goes to tournaments! So it's not too late.... while you're alive it's never too late.
So please-- the time ahead is the time that counts-- so we all, no matter how old one is, have to try to make what's to be lived the best that it can be.
Which takes effort and sometimes working against our usual patterns of response, but it all we've got--
Willful
Posted by Phillipa on September 4, 2012, at 18:54:38
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Phillipa, posted by 10derheart on September 3, 2012, at 21:00:24
I'm sure you are right. Let me see who is listed. Thanks Phillipa
Posted by Phillipa on September 4, 2012, at 18:58:28
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Phillipa, posted by 10derheart on September 3, 2012, at 21:00:24
10der not medicaid medicare and united health care. The medicaid docs and therapists are the bottom of totem pole. Phillipa
Posted by Phillipa on September 4, 2012, at 19:06:58
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do......., posted by Willful on September 4, 2012, at 11:17:35
Agree no the the person's degree don't give a darn about it's the fit. Like I said that young girl in the hospital ER was a great fit. Too bad don't remember her name as could have own practice now. Will do a search. No meds are not the answer for me. Phillipa
Posted by SLS on September 4, 2012, at 23:57:12
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » emmanuel98, posted by Twinleaf on September 2, 2012, at 19:50:03
Please excuse the interruption...
Nice thread, Twinleaf. I am happy to see this forum utilized in this fashion.
> I have Lamictal on my list as the next thing I would try if I became suicidal again - it's definitely one of the most well- thought- of medications.
I would mention that Lamictal can take 4 weeks to arrive at an effective dosage so as to avoid the precipitation of the rash-reaction. If you are in a suicidal state that is so acute that you do not feel safe, Zyprexa is probably the fastest-acting anti-suicide drug available. It can be used as a temporary bridge until the Lamictal takes effect. Klonopin would be another drug to consider to fill this role. Perhaps low-dose lithium would help prevent an acute relapse into depression.
That's all I have to say about that.
:-)
- Scott
Posted by 10derheart on September 5, 2012, at 10:28:18
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » 10derheart, posted by Phillipa on September 4, 2012, at 18:58:28
> 10der not medicaid medicare and united health care.
I don't think I mentioned Medicaid :-) Isn't United the same as United Healthcare?
Posted by zazenducke on September 5, 2012, at 13:36:49
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Phillipa, posted by 10derheart on September 3, 2012, at 21:00:24
Ms derHeart
The link you left goes to Medicaid therapists.
Posted by 10derheart on September 5, 2012, at 13:59:10
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » 10derheart, posted by Phillipa on September 4, 2012, at 18:58:28
Oops, sorry, thanks to Zzd I see what I did. I clicked the wrong word on the left as they are next to each other.Here you go.
Only 34 (or 33 since we know you won't be calling Dr. Patterson!) but that's still an awful lot. Maybe ask their offices if they will do a phone session/interview or anything like that to see if the most basic things are a fit....schedule, insurance, philosophy, etc.I hope something works out.
Posted by 10derheart on September 5, 2012, at 14:01:04
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » 10derheart, posted by zazenducke on September 5, 2012, at 13:36:49
Oops, you are totally correct. I posted the correct one to Phillipa. Glad someone is on top of things :)
Posted by jane d on September 5, 2012, at 16:53:36
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » 10derheart, posted by Phillipa on September 4, 2012, at 18:58:28
> 10der not medicaid medicare and united health care. The medicaid docs and therapists are the bottom of totem pole. Phillipa
Phillipa,
I think you are saying that you have medicare as your primary insurance and united health care as a "medigap" type secondary coverage. Is that correct?
You really need to check the terms of your own policy. If the written material is unclear call united up and ask them who you can see under YOUR plan and how much, if anything, they will pay. It may need to be a medicare provider if it's medigap coverage.
Posted by Phillipa on September 5, 2012, at 19:17:11
In reply to Re: medicare and insurance coverage » Phillipa, posted by jane d on September 5, 2012, at 16:53:36
Jane of course it is. I know this. The ones I have seen here are Patterson, Jane Marcus, a wasted year with her as she couldn't remember what the previous session had been about. Phillipa
Posted by Twinleaf on September 5, 2012, at 20:32:28
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Twinleaf, posted by SLS on September 4, 2012, at 23:57:12
Thanks Scott! I hope I don't have to, but it's great advice.
Posted by Twinleaf on September 7, 2012, at 22:27:33
In reply to Re: What psychodynamic therapy can do....... » Willful, posted by Phillipa on September 4, 2012, at 19:06:58
The interpersonal trauma and stresses that you have mentioned, beginning with your mother, are a strong indication that therapy will help much more than medications can. That's not to say that the medications don't have an important function; they do, but not to the extent that they would if you had schizophrenia or bipolar. I think you have chosen your medications wisely, and don't need to continue searching for a hypothetical "perfect" med -I don't think such a thing exists for you. From what you have posted, you haven't yet explored what really good therapy can do.
I'm so glad to see that you are interested in doing something about that. Will you let us know what the results of your search for a therapist are?
Posted by annierose on September 8, 2012, at 18:19:17
In reply to What psychodynamic therapy can do......., posted by Twinleaf on September 1, 2012, at 22:55:39
Like you, I have been in a long term psychodynamic relationship ... going on 9 years. I had seen her previously too - when I just got out of college, and called her years later. I'm not sure we clicked right away; but that probably had to do more with me than her. I didn't trust easily. I was 22, angry and depressed and confused. Back then (I'm 50 now) it was hard to know who to believe, the long running tape in my head laid down by my family or this young therapist? I was like a ping pong ball.
But now - with time and maturity I see that she has been a steady source of comfort, wisdom, reason, part cheerleader, a steady rock in stormy seas, unwavering in her support of me ... even when she wants to roll her eyes or gasp in surprise ... [she denies that of course].
My depression slowly lifted over the years (did not use medication, although we discussed it here and there). I know if I didn't have her in my life, I wouldn't be as happy or as functioning as I am. I am not ashamed of my long term relationship and freely admit it to my close friends. I agree with you wholeheartedly when you wrote: " Looking back, the quality and intensity of the relationship to him is what mattered, and is what I will always remember. I'm gradually seeing him less - As long as he is practicing, I will probably see him at least once in a while." I cannot imagine NOT seeing her as long as she is practicing. And I will add, the intensity of our relationship has lessened as I became stronger, (although my feelings are certainly not neutral).
Anyway, I could go on and on. I do not think I could be where I am at today without her in my corner. It is a slow process. But the rewards are great.
Posted by Twinleaf on September 9, 2012, at 10:09:23
In reply to Re: ...in response to original question » Twinleaf, posted by annierose on September 8, 2012, at 18:19:17
That's wonderful to hear. Your experience shows that really effective therapy can change one's brain chemistry back towards normal without the addition of medication. I do think there is an important role for medications, but my experience is very similiar to yours: they helped very little, while the experience of therapy was truly life- changing. I do think there are depressions where interpersonal stresses play a relatively small role, and neurobiology a much bigger one. For those, finding the very best medication is essential ( and better ones are urgently needed).
It's so good to hear your story.
Posted by Wittgensteinz on September 22, 2012, at 12:38:16
In reply to Re: ...in response to original question » annierose, posted by Twinleaf on September 9, 2012, at 10:09:23
I was very pleased to read your update on how well you have done with your current therapist. It sounds like I'm in a similar place.
When I started therapy 5.5 years ago I was a big mess - very depressed, suicidal, anxious, hopeless. I wouldn't say I had 'instant' relief from the therapy because things were dug up that caused me a great deal of pain and stress. A year into the therapy I attempted suicide and nearly succeeded. I'm glad he stood by me through that. Being able to trust him was an ongoing struggle that lasted for years. Even a year ago I could never have imagined I would feel as I do now. I've recently moved 3 hours away from where I used to live in order to pursue a research program in cognitive and clinical neuroscience (I travel back in the weekend to stay with my partner). The weird thing is that my therapist and I have never really discussed 'ending', although that is effectively what has happened and yet it feels like the most natural of things. I go and have a session with him when I can, which is not as often as it used to be (twice this month) - I'm always welcome and can phone or write should I need to (although I can't remember the last time that was). It feels warm and safe yet without any neediness or dependence.
I've gained so much from this experience - I feel enormously grateful that I entered into this process with such a kind, dignified and humble human being. I feel more human, more me. I'm not perfect but I'm good enough. I'll continue to visit for sessions every now and again and I expect even after that we will keep in touch in one form or another. I've learned how to trust and how to feel safe and confident in myself. I'm still stubborn and highly perfectionistic - those are things that will always be and to some extent they define me.
I wouldn't have wanted it any different - psychoanalytic psychotherapy was the right therapy for me, and in particular with the therapist I fortuitously ended up with. Who knows, one day I might be sitting on the other side... who knows.
I hope you are all doing well - or as well as possible.
Witti
Posted by Twinleaf on September 23, 2012, at 22:59:14
In reply to Re: ...in response to original question, posted by Wittgensteinz on September 22, 2012, at 12:38:16
How wonderful, Witti! I do remember many of your posts , in particular how very very hard the early years with him were, and how great the match was between the two of you. For some reason, I remember how you took the train to see him and walked through a little garden to reach his office!
From what you say, your work with him is essentially done, but actual termination is not a necessary goal. I love that way of looking at it. I am so glad you brought us up to date. What happened to you is truly wonderful. Perhaps you really will be on the other side of the couch in the future!
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