If you have been to a counselor or therapist, what was it like? I am seeing one right now, but it wasn't what I thought it was going to be. I thought it would be like in movies or tv, where we are analyzing my dreams or taking tests or even hypnotizing to try and get to the bottom of my anxiety and depression, but it is only talking. Like im just venting to a friend. Is this what it is supposed to be or should I try to find a new therapist?
asked by someone ·
5 replies
- the person who asked
Just talking isn't working for me. If this is all it is, should I just quit and save some money?
- someone who replied
I’m not a professional but I’ve been to 3 different therapists and like you was expecting it to be different. It did not really help me much because venting does nothing for me. You have to give so much context and an hour can fly by too fast and leave you dissatisfied. I realized there was going to be no magic answer, or pivotal turning point for my existential anxiety/depression. I think therapy may work for ppl who need more self-awareness.
- someone who replied, again
But if you are already self-aware, and need more help than just venting you probably need to do some inward work. So either find a therapist that can aid you with that inward work particularly, or get into mindfulness and understanding presence. What’s interesting about presence is you start to watch how thoughts/emotions/sensation enter and leave you awareness in a constant process, and you don’t need to be a victim to that process
- someone who replied
If you are not getting what you want out of it, maybe try telling them and see how they react! Wonder of that would prompt a more thoughtful and productive response. If you don't really want to do that, id move on! No sense in doing something that isn't helping. You could also ask them for a recommendation of another one. My therapist played hard ball and made me see some of my bullshit. I needed that. It was a good fit and productive. Maybe you
- someone who replied, again
Are looking for aomething similar. Otherwise I'd be happy to chat about what's bothering you!
