[ster]

I'm not sure how to word this, but i'll try. do therypysts think we should change a bad way we think of ourselfs I've had 50+ years thinking I'm bad and a failure. Do they think in a few months thinking can change. please any info would be gratefull for.

[ErinBear]

Hi Ster,

I think therapy is different for each person. A lot depends on what you would like to get out of therapy, and if you want to change your ideas about yourself. Is this the specific area you might want to try to work on if you saw a counselor? If not, you can tell the counselor that you are not comfortable discussing that area, and they are generally pretty good about respecting the client's wishes. If this is an area that you wish to change, yes, they should be able to help you with this. How long it will take can vary a great deal. I've seen people make changes very quickly at times, but I'm not sure why. Maybe they were ready to make the changes when they met the counselor, and just needed some encouragement. For other people, it takes some time, work, caring, and support. It may take more than a few months for some folks, and sometimes it takes years. Still, it is very possible to feel better about yourself if this is your goal.

I saw a counselor and I can say that I had a terrible opinion of myself. We worked together longer than a few months, but I can say that through our work I did end up with an improved opinion of myself. I'm doing a lot better than I was. So I want to tell you it is possible. And I'm not 50, but I'm in my early 40's.

I hope this helps a little bit.

Thinking of you and wishing you all the best,

Take care,
ErinBear

[(JD)]

Depends upon you.

Working.. I mean WORKING in therapy CAN change many things and mainly HOW we think about things... in a short period of time (see cognitive distortions.)

If the issues are that ingrained though, while you can learn why you think the way you do, and learn how to change your thinking, it will take YOU many years to get it down to a science to do healthily, imo.

You might not need a T for all that time.

[January]

Hi Ster,

Therapy is different for everyone. I don't think any therapist expects us to immediately change. Sometimes it takes a lot of time and hard work to make the changes you want. I've been in therapy for seven years now and have seen lots of remarkable changes in my thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Some people change faster, some slower. All of us need to go at our own pace.

My very best wishes to you on your journey.

Hugs,

Jan