[SilverTree]

I recently started getting therapy. I was assaulted a number of years ago, for which I'm only now just getting help.

In any case, I've seen this therapist a handful of times, general feel pretty good about choosing her as a therapist. But the last few sessions we haven't talked about the incident at all - not really. We've talked about a lot of other things. And at the end of last session (I had like 5 minutes before it ended), she said "I've changed your diagnosis to PTSD." At which time i felt a little shocked that she didn't bring it up at the beginning. I mean, I had an inkling that what I was experiencing was PTSD, but to wait and just say this at the end of my session and not really take the time to explain it to me felt pretty crappy.

I also don't know what to expect to get out of seeing a therapist. I feel like we don't talk about the incident hardly at all. I don't know what I'm supposed to be expecting and seeing from therapy. I'm wondering if I'm wasting my time with her.

[mick07]

I recently started therapy also. We don't always talk about what happened. Sometimes we just try to get to know each other better-- build a little trust. Sometimes I think she's trying to gauge how it effects my functioning. You may want to talk with her about what your your therapy -- as you pay the bill. Mine has been asking me a lot of questions about what I want to accomplish during this time & how much time I'm willing to committ.

[CedarS]

If possible, let her know how you feel, especially in regards to the PTSD diagnosis. Ask for more time to talk it over.

Also I suggest asking her to work with you in choosing goals for your time in therapy.

[Kiya]

yeah - i think tonight we're finally starting to get to work on actual approaches... it's been 5 months. We've touched on a few things, but not really dug out heels in yet.
it takes time to get to know the person and to establish trust and a working rapport.
best, kiya