AngelicEnigma, try to find a therapist who is supportive of your desire to attempt to face your challenges without meds. They are out there. I kind of had the opposite problem. When I first went for therapy, I really wanted to get some anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications. I was barely functioning. By my counselor turned out to be one who didn't like her clients to do meds. I was so non-functional I couldn't challenge her on this so just gave her way a try. Later I moved on to another therapist who also didn't pressure me to do meds. Today, 18 months later, I am pretty much depression and anxiety free and did it without drugs (I had occasional panic attacks and don't have those anymore either). I don't see that original counselor anymore, but if I ever did again, the first thing I would say to her would be "thank you for encouraging me to try this without meds!" So please give it a go, and try to find a therapist who is open minded about this. If drug-free doesn't work for you, you can always try meds later. Good luck!!!