[confusedworried]

Let me start out by saying that I have my first appointment with a therapist in less than a week. I've never discussed my issues with a doctor or therapist before. For several years I've been struggling with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Over the past five years my temper has become unpredictable and difficult to control... I'm not an angry person, but sometimes I feel like a monster. I have no excuses. I've physically hurt others as well as myself.

I'm terrified that no therapist will want to help me when I tell them I've been physically violent. I'm terrified too because this is the issue that scares me more than any other, it's the main reason I chose to seek help. Are my fears warranted? Will the therapist still want to help me?

[pachyderm]

If a therapist cannot help you, and you are honest, he or she should refer you to someone better able to cope. Should.

[Angel_of_the_Past]

I think as long as you're honest and willing to work on your issues they are willing to help. If they feel unable they will help you find another T.

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( confusedworried )))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

I'm pretty new to the therapy world, but my guess is that OF COURSE a therapist will want to help you. You are coming in and saying "this is what I did, this is what I regret, I need help so I can change". That's totally brave, and commendable. Good for you.

[(JD)]

That's why the T became a therapist, to help people with things just like those you are struggling with. Depression has an element of anger, btw...which you are expressing. It's a good thing to get help. Feel better soon.

[little*rhino]

have you considered medications? at least until you get some better understanding of the underlying issues? A medical doctor might be able to help you choose something to help calm you while you address this.

[Slippers]

It would be a good idea to honestly explain to the T all the reasons why the T should feel safe. For instance, "I am only violent when I'm drunk", or "only violent with my family", or "it takes a lot to tick me off"...or whatever. The T will want to know that he/she will not get punched.

Slippers

[Rapunzel]

It helps to know that you are aware of the problem and you sincerely want to change. The setting might make a difference too. If the office has other people around, that would feel more safe than if the T were in private practice alone in an isolated place. But I would be more afraid of clients who are angry and refuse to admit that they have a problem with anger. Those are the ones who can lose control, because they don't think it is a problem.