Unhealthy Therapy
I had a couple of bad experiences with therapy and in the mental health field, itself.
i just started with a new therapist, so far he seems great.
I had a positive experience 3 years ago seeing a therapist in NJ for 9 months. I moved back to NYC, my hometown- 2 months before the pandemic. So, we needed to stop treatment. But she was very helpful and a good example of what good therapy can and should be like.
I am grateful for that experience and for her..
I had a very confusing therapeutic relationship for 15 years. I was or I allowed myself be completely ruled by her or anything she said or suggested. I still feel resentment and even loss because I should have been allowed to figure things out on my own and she should have ended the treatment, knowing I may not have been benefiting.
it’s confusing- the whole concept, And in a way quite abstract- because there’s no real litmus test so to speak—
and when we’re vulnerable our healthy instincts are sometimes unavailable, we can and sometimes do end up in the wrong hands…
I think it’s helpful when there’s a check & balance system- when you’re therapist is with a clinic or works in some type of community where it’s not just you & the therapist- that can feel like too much pressure —-
@Lu5566
Having the right therapist is crucial for your wellbeing. I believe a good therapist guides you to learn ways to help yourself and does not rule a patient but stays open minded, non judgementally and compassionate. Sorry that you had a bad experience for such a long time. I'm glad that you did not give up but reached out again and found good therapists. At 7 Cups, we understand that finding the right clinician is very important, so members are allowed to switch therapists unlimited and at no extra cost to them until they find the right fit.
@amiablePeace77
Thank you for this really useful post Ami :)
@Lu5566
In therapy, it can be like any relationship and sometimes they flourish but also sometimes they do not work out for us. This is why the therapeutic alliance (the relationship between you and your therapist) is crucial to feeling like you've had a positive experience in therapy. It's important to spend time finding the right therapeutic approach and also to identify what kind of traits you wish to see in therapy and how you wish to feel about the therapeutic alliance. It's always good to check to see if it's realistic as sometimes clients come to therapy expecting it to be quick and they'll feel better; as we know it doesn't work like this. Or perhaps they want their therapist to be more of a friend and give advice which would be unethical. So it's important to understand your goals, wishes and preferences before you find a therapist to ensure it is a positive experience for you.
I am glad now though that you're having a positive experience in therapy and I hope you continue to flourish within your sessions. I am sorry to hear of your experiences and most therapists come into the field because they have a true desire to help people feel better so I hope you continue to experience this with your current therapist.
