Quote:
Originally Posted by stopdog
So if someone goes into therapy because of anxiety or depression or anger or whatever - then positive moments, connections, positive affirmations in session, etc are seen as a positive thing that you have gained? Not just something not unpleasant that occurs during the appointment, but actually something you have gained? And they help some people with the underlying reason for going even if they did not go in looking for connections, positive moments etc.? (subtle attempt to get thread back on track)
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The positive moments that I connect with my therapist I do see as helpful. As something gained. But maybe not to the extent others do. I went into therapy for depression and lack of self esteem. When I connect with my therapist and make him laugh or he me. Or grasp some weird psychological thing he's explaining I see it as me having gained something. Its another step in me learning that I'm an ok person. I'm not stupid. I can be social. Sure it is with someone who I'm paying but I've been with therapists who I don't click with and its the exact same feeling as being in a room with a person who you don't like. The tension in the air.
The trust the relationship thing is different. I get from perusing these boards that people have different relationships with their therapists than I do. I'm not there for hugs, or toys, or however it helps them. To me trusting in the relationship just means here is one person that for one hour a week I can unload on and not have to take their feelings into account to a great degree. I can say "my life is ****" or "so I sat down with a bottle of pills this weekend" and not have to be concerned with their reaction. Not have them sweep the topic under the rug. Trusting in the relationship to me is just that for that hour he's going to listen and he's going to call me on my **** when I start pretending it is no big deal.