((((((((((((((((echoes)))))))))))))
I kind of agree with you about dealing with the SI issues, but my last T (who ended up betraying me) completely ignored the SI - the act AND the issues, and that made me feel like he totally didn't care. So I'm kind of glad she addressed it, but at the same time it made me uneasy.
I hope I can get to the point at which her attention feels 'wonderful and caring' - just like your experience.

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I like how you describe working with your T a 'collaboration'. I totally don't get that sense yet but hope it will come with time. I feel hopeful knowing that it has been your experience.

((((((((((((((((earthmama)))))))))))))))
Thank you SO MUCH for your encouragement. I did the peeking thing too, because I couldn't stand to look at her for long periods. I just wanted to hide!!!! It will be really scary to talk to her about being uncomfortable, but I am encouraged to do it because of how you explained it is 'part of the process'. I get thes sense she would be open to it. Last session she 'guessed' about how I was feeling and then she said I should feel free to tell her if she was wrong because that's how she would get to know me better.

((((((((((((((((sunrise))))))))))))))))))))
I think she meant people who aren't 'stable' need a higher level of care such as IOP, Partial or even inpatient. I just came from 2 1/2 months of inpatient and partial hospitalization, so I think she is really trying to encourage positive coping skills and 'self-care'. I am terrified to go back in the hospital, so this is a good motivation for me to fight the urges.
About the SI tool - she said I could either give it to her or my husband. I really didn't want to give it up - like you said it is 'comforting' just to know it is there and available. But I decided to just pack it in a box and put it in the attic. Then my husband found it anyway and took it. Mt T did acknowledge that if I want to SI I will find a way, but I have to admit it does help me fight urges to not have the tool in my nightstand.
We haven't really started focusing on the issues that lead to SI, but maybe we just haven't had time yet.....
Thank you for your feedback, Sunrise, and for encouraging me to stick with it. I really appreciate all you said.