My T is similar. He has not come out and said he will not work with me after a SU attempt but he does have strict protocol using DBT chain analysis everytime I self harm and another 3 session form we have to go through if SI get really bad. I don't have to do homework but he expects me to practice DBT skills including mindfulness and I have to turn in a diary card noting what skills I used each day and it tracks emotions and drug/alcohol use both prescription and non each day.

He is strict as far as not using any drugs or alcohol except for antidepressant meds to numb out feelings. He also pushes for progress each session. I cannot just gripe about life at the moment unless I am using feeling words and willing to work with him on skills to improve the situation.

While most people here think this is too rigid, he is still patient and caring. He just wants me to get better and feels it would be unethical to see me each week and not work towards progressing forward. I don't like it sometimes but I have to admit that I have made a LOT of progress in the last 3 years. He specialized in trauma, BPD and dissociative disorders so all of his clients usually have a lot of work to do. I have CPTSD and DID and I do not want to be in therapy forever. I am in my 50s and not getting any younger. Personally, I am glad I found someone who wants me to get better as quickly as I can.

I am in therapy to make my life better. I don't need a friend or someone to just talk to each week while continuing to feel miserable.