Pam "SFSOM" in TN Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Yay, me! After putting it off for a looong time, I am finally seeing somebody about life issues that I've not been dealing with lo these many years. After a amazing and profitable marathon self-examination session with my best friend weekend before last, I'm finally getting the courage to get some accountability and perhaps some insight by putting in some time on the [vinyl, lol] couch. She's amazing. My age, similar interests and temperaments, good skills, and the ability to talk past my copious tears with no more reaction than tossing me a box of kleenex. Nice. AND she's a marriage and family therapist by training, so she says I can bring in dh if I want to at any point if she or I think it would be helpful. How's that for free student counseling services? Weird to be so excited, but I am quietly hopeful that I can know myself better and get a better handle on my life. Manage stress better. Sustain an exercise program. Clarify life. Figure out some puzzling inconsistencies in my life. *quiet happy sigh* Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Old Dominion Heather Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Awww. Pam, that is great! I'm so glad it was a good thing. I have always wondered how that would be... the whole counseling thing. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andie Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Aw, Pam. I'm excited and hopeful for you! Good for you for taking the step. :grouphug: Yay, me! After putting it off for a looong time, I am finally seeing somebody about life issues that I've not been dealing with lo these many years. After a amazing and profitable marathon self-examination session with my best friend weekend before last, I'm finally getting the courage to get some accountability and perhaps some insight by putting in some time on the [vinyl, lol] couch. She's amazing. My age, similar interests and temperaments, good skills, and the ability to talk past my copious tears with no more reaction than tossing me a box of kleenex. Nice. AND she's a marriage and family therapist by training, so she says I can bring in dh if I want to at any point if she or I think it would be helpful. How's that for free student counseling services? Weird to be so excited, but I am quietly hopeful that I can know myself better and get a better handle on my life. Manage stress better. Sustain an exercise program. Clarify life. Figure out some puzzling inconsistencies in my life. *quiet happy sigh* Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
plain jane Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Yay, me! After putting it off for a looong time, I am finally seeing somebody about life issues that I've not been dealing with lo these many years. After a amazing and profitable marathon self-examination session with my best friend weekend before last, I'm finally getting some accountability and perhaps some insight by putting in some time on the [vinyl, lol] couch. She's amazing. My age, similar interests and temperaments, good skills, and the ability to talk past my copious tears with no more reaction than tossing me a box of kleenex. Nice. AND she's a marriage and family therapist by training, so she says I can bring in dh if I want to at any point if she or I think it would be helpful. How's that for free student counseling services? Weird to be so excited, but I am quietly hopeful that I can know myself better and get a better handle on my life. Manage stress better. Sustain an exercise program. Clarify life. Figure out some puzzling inconsistencies in my life. *quiet happy sigh* Good for you Pam :grouphug:. I'm happy to hear that you are excited about this. I've been struggling with mild depression that I just couldn't shake so I started seeing a counsellor a while back. While I was able to work a few things out and come to deal with stress a bit better I never really clicked with her so I keep hoping to find someone who is a better fit for me. Unfortunately where I am I'm having a hard time accessing free counselling and the $150/hr going rate is just not affordable for us at this time. I know first-hand what a difference a good counsellor can make and I wish you continued success! I think that's really great that you took that step. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Remudamom Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Yeah, be happy! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JudoMom Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 :001_smile::grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jen500 Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 I hope it goes well for you. It's great to take that time for yourself. :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomeOnTheRanch Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Pam, I think it is great that you had the courage to do that. Too many people think there is a stigma to seeing a counselor that they avoid it to their detriment. I hope it is very profitable for you! :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sleepy Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Pam, that's wonderful! I am so happy for you. :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mom to Aly Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Pam, I'm so, so happy for you! I had been to countless therapists over the years, and thought them a joke. Then, after xh left me, I went to one with whom I just clicked--and that was it, it all changed for me. She helped me sooo much! It sounds like you have a good one! I know that first step is so hard--so proud you did it! Congratulations. It won't be easy at times, but do continue--it will be worth it! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jennifer in MI Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Good for you Pam!!! :grouphug::grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rosie_0801 Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 *round of applause for your bravery!* :) Rosie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Lots of hugs, Pam, I think that takes a lot of guts. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Twinmom Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Way to go, Pam! I'm proud of you...really proud! :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Michelle T Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 I started seeing a counselor a couple months ago, in fact, I just got home from my weekly appointment. The right counselor can really help you. MichelleT Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dawn E Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Wishing you all the best, Pam. :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brigitte Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 :grouphug: Sometimes what we really need is an objective ear to listen to us. I am glad you found one. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Heather in the Kootenays Posted September 2, 2008 Share Posted September 2, 2008 Visiting my extended family this weekend really showed me (again) how important it is to deal with this stuff because it doesn't go away. But it's so tough. I'm mustering up my courage to do the same. :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PariSarah Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 I'm glad you found such a good resource! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tammyla Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 :001_smile::grouphug::001_smile: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Elaine Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Yay, me! After putting it off for a looong time, I am finally seeing somebody about life issues that I've not been dealing with lo these many years. After a amazing and profitable marathon self-examination session with my best friend weekend before last, I'm finally getting the courage to get some accountability and perhaps some insight by putting in some time on the [vinyl, lol] couch. She's amazing. My age, similar interests and temperaments, good skills, and the ability to talk past my copious tears with no more reaction than tossing me a box of kleenex. Nice. AND she's a marriage and family therapist by training, so she says I can bring in dh if I want to at any point if she or I think it would be helpful. How's that for free student counseling services? Weird to be so excited, but I am quietly hopeful that I can know myself better and get a better handle on my life. Manage stress better. Sustain an exercise program. Clarify life. Figure out some puzzling inconsistencies in my life. *quiet happy sigh* When my second born was two, I went to a counselor (good Christian friend) for an intensive three day therapy session. It was paid for by my parents who saw me plummeting into a dark abysmal depression? bad mood? ickyness? I still don't know what to call it, but I knew that I needed help. Those three days helped me to see so much about myself that was true and so much about myself that was untrue. Good for you, Pam! I hope that you find the answers that you are looking for. I hope that you cry all that you need to in the safety of her office. I hope that you find solace in her words and peace for your past.:grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Miss Peregrine Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 I did the same several months ago and I am better for it. May it be a healing balm to your soul.:grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gardenschooler Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 That's great, Pam. I'm happy for you that you've got someone you feel comfortable talking to, and will help you on the path to cleaning out, sorting through, and moving on. Decluttering the psyche is good for the soul. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jackie in AR Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 That required a lot of courage, Pam. I'm glad you found someone you feel comfortable with. ((Hugs)) to you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Doran Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 S'there room on that couch for two? I can sense in your post that you are pleased with yourself for taking this initiative, and you should be. It's not everyone who has the insight to realize she has "issues", let alone the willingness and ability to get help. I'm glad it all came together for you for this. Keep me posted, will you? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amy loves Bud Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Yay you! :001_smile: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mekanamom Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Very glad you found what you were looking for!! :grouphug: (I've been wanting to rep you for numerous posts lately, but alas, I must spread it around more first.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mom2legomaniacs Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Good for you! I think it will be very healing. I am quite proud of you for taking that big scary step you know. Very proud indeed!:grouphug: my friend. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WTMindy Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 That is so great, Pam!! Good for you!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GSMP Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 :grouphug: Pam....tough decision and takes great courage to make that leap. It is important that you found someone you could be comfortable with and trust. I started back in June and am waffling back and forth on quitting....that emotional stuff is the tough stuff to deal with but I am sticking to it. Hang in there.....I was going to rep you but apparently I all ready did....:D Keeping you in my prayers.....:grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amy in Orlando Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 I'm happy for you and proud of you, Pam! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mosaicmind Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Good for you, Pam. I have been in counseling for 5years now. She is a wonderful Christian lady with her master's in pastoral counseling. I was looking for someone who specialized in Theophostic Prayer Counseling and my prayers were answered. The big plus is that she does not charge me a cent. Stick with it, you are worth it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
3lilreds in NC Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Yay for you, Pam!!! I'm so happy that you found someone wonderful and that you're feeling good about it. I'm a little jealous in fact. I went to a counselor a few years ago and had a completely awful experience. I would like to find another one, but feel quite a sense of panic when I think about trying again. Perhaps you will inspire me to get over myself and look into it. :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Plaid Dad Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Good for you! I'm so glad you found someone who's a good match, too. That can make all the difference. Go, Pam, go! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura in VA Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Yay for Pam! :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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