[Tangerine87]

My Ts on vacation and he has a back up counselor that I can call if I need to and I have. But it’s really weird. And I feel so guilty calling the back up counselor. I’ve just in a bit of crisis this week. I’m also a bit angry that T is gone. Why did he leave me? I know these are not rational thoughts.

[ElectricManatee]

I have met with a backup T when my T was on vacation and it was somewhat helpful. I don't think anybody should agree to be a backup T if they don't want clients to contact them, so it's okay to ask them for help if you need it.

[Tangerine87]

It hasn’t even been a whole week since t has been gone. I feel so silly.

[SlumberKitty]

I saw former T's backup T a couple of times when she was on vacation. But it was set up beforehand so it didn't feel awkward. But I think if you need help it's okay to ask for help. Hugs. Kit

[coolibrarian]

You were given the other T's contact info, so I think it's ok to contact them. As for it "only being a week," our hard times are not on a schedule.

[LonesomeTonight]

I've seen T's backup a few times while he's been on vacation (for a week each time--I'm used to seeing him twice a week). I found it to be helpful. I didn't give her a full history, like an intake or anything, just talked about what was on my mind at the time. Including missing T. I'd suggest trying it.

[Tangerine87]

I’ve exhausted that ts resources. He didn’t say give me a call back if you need to. I really miss my t. Why did he have to leave me all alone? I feel sad and I hope he is ok. What if he’s hurt?

[susannahsays]

I am not unsympathetic, but he probably did not tell you to call back because he is on vacation and he set up the backup therapist specifically so that he could have a break from work. Everybody needs a break sometimes. If you are a danger to yourself, you probably need to go to a hospital if the backup therapist is unable to assist you.

[Tangerine87]

I had talked to backup T not my T. I am not so cruel.

[susannahsays]

Ah, ok. I have no idea why I interpreted what you said the way I did. Did he offer you an appointment or did you just talk on the phone?

[Tangerine87]

Over the phone. He agreed to do my therapists checkins. A full hour was not an option. I felt guilty taking up his time. I feel so silly for missing my therapist so much. I really hope he will be back. I have abandonment issues. He also didn’t give me much notice and I’m having a hard time right now in my life.

[susannahsays]

Seems like he's not a great choice of a backup when he can't even see you for a session. I don't think you should feel guilty for using him for the check-ins, though. When will your therapist be back?