[Loco4]

Hi All,

I've been struggling with staying connected to my T between sessions. Were working on some things to help me between sessions. T has suggested she audio records me a mindfulness exercise, and a soft warm object like a blanket. Not sure how I feel about a blanket, feels a bit childish.

Has anyone else tried these or different ideas? Would love some suggestions!

[ScarletPimpernel]

For right now, all I have are pictures of her (from fb) and her emails. When we terminate, she's going to give me a rock as a transitional object.

think the struggle you have, is your tool and that's how it works.

[fullsassahead]

I struggle a lot with attachment and abandonment. And, as such, time in between sessions can be difficult as I crave that connection, but often question whether it exists outside the confines of her office. I feel that way with all of the members of my treatment team, but often experience that connection and attachment differently.

All of my providers allow out-of-session contact via text or, in one case, email and text. With my therapist, I know she will remind and reassure me that she is not going to leave or abandon me. She isn't big on reassurances via text as texting is more for needs relating to crises, but she does know how upsetting and scary the thought of losing her is and she will often loosen her boundaries about that one thing in particular. But, where all are concerned, I will often save their texts so that I can go back to them and reread them when necessary. One, they often contain tools and skills that I can use when in distress. But, they also serve as a reminder that my team is there and I remain connected to them.

My therapist has given me a transitional object which does bring me comfort and helps me remain connected to her in between sessions. It is small; something she had me use during sessions to keep my hands busy. When she went on vacation, she allowed me to take it home and has since allowed me to keep it with me at all times. For me, it is comforting and I do take it out during particularly difficult times. I do not have a transitional object with my dietitian. However, I have been able to internalize her over time and I do not feel that one has been necessary. I suppose the nature of our relationship also lends itself to not needing something tangible. With the third member of my team, I have multiple transitional objects. Oddly, she is the one I am least attached to as she is new to me. But, during our initial meeting, she gave me something and has done so every session since. She also allowed me to have something of hers when I needed to go to the hospital as I was ill and very fearful. Again, the objects she has given me have served to help me feel safe, connected, and comforted.

In the end, it is part of my treatment to internalize my team and my therapy in order to no longer need a transitional object to maintain a connection. But, for the time being, I am grateful that my T and others understand my need for transitional objects as well as reminders that I will not be abandoned by them. I don't know how I would feel about an audio of my T, but I would personally be comforted by having something such as a blanket. I do not feel its childish. In the past, when I have felt that way, I have tried to not judge, but rather accept that I have feelings and deserve care and support around them. If a blanket would help you maintain the connection you feel with your T, there is nothing wrong with that. But, if that seems too vulnerable, perhaps something like a pen, rock, or even piece of paper with an affirmation or treatment goal she has written for you would be feel better. In any event, it's about what works for you.