[Chloe2]

sometimes my t is really supportive and other times, particularly when I need it, he backs away. its so hurtful. He shares in my joy as though he is personally affected by it, but he doesnt support me with the same "investment" when I am in pain, in fact I feel he emotionally backs away. Anyone know what this is about?

[stopdog]

They don't like to give you positive reinforcement for being in pain or having a crisis or whatever. So they down play it so the client does ot try to get attention that way.

[Chloe2]

wow really? I mean I get that for certain things. But, when we get to talking about trauma, he becomes so cold. But if in the same session I express excitement over some personal accomplishment he is guenuinely over the moon for me. If he could show the same investment maybe we could make better progress. Its hard enough to talk to them *sigh*. Was the worst session today.

[stopdog]

Well, it is one reason. You could point it out to him next time and ask him to explain it.

[ECHOES]

He is giving you all the room you need to explore what is happening, not interfering and not influencing in any way. It is hard when what we think would feel better is comfort; but comfort is re-directing and therefore interfering.

I hope you can talk to him about how this feels for you, and hear his response which I think will be really helpful.