Thanks for your replies, they've really helped me think things through.

Syra, I like the Anais Nin quote too. I've had that experience too, of being happy and ready to move on from another therapist I saw a few years ago (actually alongside the one I'm still seeing). I was seeing her about an issue in particular and just grew through it all and, as you say 'skipped off into the sunset'. A great feeling!

What I'm realising though is that this time around it's totally different. Your last paragraph, Anne2.0, just really sums it up. That's how I feel too.

I don't know why it is that I'd never expect anyone else to live alongside a family with several individuals all on the autism spectrum and in addition be the one looking out for a learning disabled and schizophrenic sister without any support for themselves. I would never think anyone else should manage that - so why do I expect that of myself?

Probably what I need really is stop thinking I ought to give up the support - and keep developing the 'blossoming' bits of my life (which are just mine and free from all those needy people!) I guess it's the 'self care' really isn't it?