Dear Granite,

I used to be in a very similar position as you are, and I'd really struggle to say much of anything at all when I saw my counselor. It was extremely frustrating and upsetting, and I was really mad at myself and at times, upset with him as well. Thankfully for me, he was very patient with me and we found various ways to work through that hard time - often through writing, even during the middle of the session. But there came a time when I started to be brave and talk, with a lot of encouragement from him. It was very hard, yes, but for me it was also very healthy, and as time went on I was able to talk more and more. I never imagined that would be possible. I am guessing that it will ultimately be possible for you, too, because even though it is a very hard thing, I have a hunch you do want it, and when the time is right, I imagine you'll gradually start talking more. It sounds like you are getting to a place where sometimes you are able to say a few words here and there, and that is how things started for me, with a lot of encouragement from my counselor. I am sending a lot of good thoughts your way....

Take care,
ErinBear