Mary Alice,

You said that you don't like him to use "techniques" with you. I think that makes sense. Maybe it makes you feel less unique if a technique that is used with other people is also being applied to you. I think that you want to be a unique person as opposed to a client with the focus on a problem or set of problems. Am I close?

You are a unique person, and whatever techniques your T tries with you he has to adapt to fit you and make them something that will help you. There is no program that can be followed exactly the same way that will work for everyone. But ideas have been developed into programs and strategies that make therapy more effective than without them. All counselors have a theoretical orientation, even if it is eclectic, and they use and adapt various techniques or skills in order to find the best way to help you. When you break it down like that it makes it seem less personal, doesn't it? Combining those skills and adapting them to meet the needs of a unique individual is really an art though. Maybe it would be a good idea for you to talk to your T about techniques. I'd be happy to talk to you about techniques also if you like, although I'm such a new beginner at trying to learn that stuff.

The world is a better place because you are in it, especially for Alex and for all the people who care about you, myself included. I wish healing and happiness for you, my friend.

Wendy xoxoxox

<font color=green>"Someone may have stolen your dream when it was young and fresh and you were innocent. Anger is natural. Grief is appropriate. Healing is mandatory. Restoration is possible." -Jane Rubietta</font color=green>