I've definitely run the gamut in understanding and recovering from harmful therapy. I began blaming myself, feeling extremely unworthy and vulnerable. I learned I had to figure out life on my own; there's no one to help me. I learned there's no magic transformation into something else or anyone else; I'm stuck being me.

I'm still trying to discard the persecution-self-pity-entitlement self-identitification that therapy gave me. I'm trying to dismantle all my therapy-think--labeling myself, actions, other human beings.

I'm less inclined now to let stronger personalites judge, boss or supervise me--though I still have that fearful reflex. I no longer fall for someone's "performance." In fact, I believe the more bluster someone has, the less substance likely behind it.

I've learned there was never an authority figure bolstering me; I was coping myself all along. I've learned there are no Life Experts; any who claims to be is a faker. I learned never to surrender my judgment to someone else. I learned the difference between science and speculation and showmanship. I've learned to live with a minority opinion. I've learned to be more patient when my beliefs threaten someone else's fears. And I've made friends who've asked the difficult, painful questions I have.