[O-Dawg]

Usually when I tell people I have Paranoid Schizophrenia, they ask me if I am seeing a therapist. When I tell them no, they freak out and usually beg me to see one.

I saw one for a little while after I was diagnosed, but she scared me and made my problems worse. She kept asking me about personal things and I didn't feel comfortable telling a stranger. But she insisted. I quit her and friends bugged me to find another. I was afriad but I did anyway. He wanted to put me on medication. I believe in shamans and natural cures, so i refused medication. He was really nice to me up until then and he chose not to respect my spiritual beliefs. I got really scared again and quit him too. Now I am just a paranoid sometimes psychotic dude wandering around without a therapist or medication. I like to look to my family, friends and girlfriend for support because they know me and I know I can tell them anything. Sometimes I wish that it was mandatory for therapists to have mental disorders just so they can relate to us.

The reason I made this post is cause I'm wondering if you guys think it's weird. I personally don't believe in therapists and medication, but I still care about the people who see them and respect them no matter their decisions. But I feel hurt when people push me to see a therapist when I don't want to. I tell them that I am better off dealing with my problems by getting help from the people I love. I still get told that I need a professional to look after me. But why? I feel intimidated by medical staff and it only triggers delusions.

I promise I don't mean to offend people who are happy w their therapist. I'm glad you are happy with him/her and I wish you the best!

O-Dawg

It sounds like you are dealing with a lot. And you are right, a therapist or psychiatrist should respect your spiritual beliefs and take that into account. Are you currently seeing a shaman? Are those spiritual needs regarding mental illness being met?

I think as a therapist it is difficult because by walking in their office you are asking them for help. I wish that they could sit with you longer to really understand what you want from them, and could see where you are coming from. It takes a long time to build rapport with a stranger, especially when we struggle with paranoia.

Originally Posted by O-Dawg

I tell them that I am better off dealing with my problems by getting help from the people I love. I still get told that I need a professional to look after me.

Someone has pushed you to see a therapist along the way. Are they loved ones? I ask because perhaps the people around you want to help, but also realize that paranoid schizophrenia takes it's toll on you and feel a professional that is trained can offer more specialized treatment.

I wonder what it may look like to contact therapists or agencies around your area and tell them your needs. Tell them you are not looking for a therapist, but a shaman. Or, a therapist trained with a particular training and experience in that area.

I wish you well

[lastyearisblank]

I do think it is hard to find a good therapist. Respect and boundaries are the most important thing. You want someone who is going to be honest with you but still listen. What about trying a support group instead?

[sunrise]

I am interested in hearing more about your experience of healing with shamans. I had a friend who had a therapist who was trained in the shamanic arts and it worked really well for her. One thing I wonder--how does one find this kind of healer?

[Perna]

I think if you are not a burden to yourself or others, you can do whatever you with with your health? Yes, to get public funds or do certain things you have to go by the rules of the local community you live in but if you don't want those things for your life; I say ignore those who want to tell you how best to run your life.

http://www.shamanlinks.net/Shaman_Links.htm#Wisconsin

[O-Dawg]

hey thanx everyone. Thanks for the link, Perna. I have thought of support groups, but I get scared that they are going to be regulated and organized. I am afraid of being labeled as a crazy and have people thinking I'm just a schizo!

[protector1973]

do what makes you happy.