I agree. But I have considered this. This happens when I go through vulnerable periods. It isn't like I have lived every single day of my life like this. But when I am in a weak position others freely take potshots. That's life.

The way I see it it IS insulting. But in fact I have allowed victimization. And it is my responsibility to get out. (I guess. )

This is a peculiar situation. This psychologist does "phone chats" that I do not pay for as she is with my health care provider. If I made an "official" appointment to see her at her office through my insurance it would be $160 a visit. But the phone consults are free.

Because of this I feel a bit less invested. We have never even met in person - it is a cyber-relationship - but I do want to consider her opinions.

I personally don't like the word "empowered" nor do I like labels such as "victim mentality" --- but maybe because the calls are so brief she resorts to shorthand.

Hell if I know. I just want to use what is valuable in order to improve my situation.

If being empowered means not being vulnerable...I am right there. That's what I want. Vulnerability is highly over-rated in my book at this time.