[lostmyway21]

Well quick background. I've been in paramedic school the last few months to get myself acclimated to the school environment after I failed out of school because of my PTSD two years ago. It's going great I'm doing good. Now I've been toying with the thought of going back to school full time in the fall but I've been afraid to tell T. Not about the idea of going back to school because I knew would be supportive, but because of the major I want.

So after session I sent him an email, I told him I wanted to go back to school full time but I was afraid to tell him the major because I didn't want him to laugh at me because it's a total oxymoron.

Clever T...caught on right away!! (I want to major in psychology and get my LSCW.) He replied, "I get it I think it could be a wonderful thing for you to do. I can talk to you about the process." I was blown away by his support. I figured he would think I was even crazier.

I wonder how my bipolar would affect my ability to become a therapist? Would there be positives or just negatives? I mean obviously I would need to work harder, but I would be able to empathize at a much higher level.

Hm anyone have any input? Should I give it a shot or no?

[Perna]

I think you could be a great LCSW. One of my best friends from high school became one working for her State and loved it; she had wanted to be a psychologist but the science and length of time in school was more than she wanted since she wanted to be a therapist.

[tkdgirl]

I think if it's something you're passionate about and really want to do I would say go for it. You never know how it will workout unless you try. It seems most T's have some type of issue of their own and it's usually there own struggles that actually help make them better Ts. Another way to maybe think about it is, if you don't do it will it be something you will always look back on with regret.

I think it's a wonderful idea! You are right about the empathy and you having "been there". That will be a great help. I went back to school and majored in psych and rehab counseling. It was great! Iloved every minute of it. It was a struggle at times, with my illness, but in the long run, I graduated with honors and loved the work I did.
Go for it!!

[WePow]

I think that Ts who are REAL humans with REAL issues are the best ;-) You can do it if that is what you want to do. It has to be where your heart is though. But you certainly can do it.

[BonnieJean]

That's so exciting! Your idea to do that and your t's reaction!!!!