Thank you all for your encouragement. It was not easy, but I feel like if I could get through that situation, then I can get through any situation.

pachyderm: I wouldn't tell you to go out looking for this kind of situation, but I can tell you that since it found me, I was determined to learn as much as I could from it.

Sannah: Some of it was feelings from the past coming up but I think the majority of my fear was present day because this lady is so angry and volatile. She has no concept of boundaries or social etiquette. I really was afraid, in that moment, that she was going to do something to lash out. I worked really hard at my mindfulness skill to stay in the present.

earthmama: It was an awesome learning experience. I realized that I could stand up to anyone, if I could stand up to her. Right now I'm still very hesitant about group. I'm afraid she'll show up next week acting like nothing ever happened. I really don't want to see her again. I'm going to check in with my therapist and her therapist to make sure she understands that she is not to attend group anymore.

Sunrise: Both therapists admitted that this was a learning experience for them and that they both got a lot out of it. I was completely shocked that she came in and interrupted group. I couldn't believe she did that. But like I said, she doesn't understand boundaries or social etiquett. I don't think your worries are exaggerated either. I think I've run through all those scenarios in my head since last night. I think an email to my therapist asking what assurance I have that this person will not show up at the building on group night would be appropriate.

There was no mention of changing the day/time/location. I will also bring that up as a possibility.