Posted by Mark H. on January 29, 2001, at 20:43:09
In reply to Re: safe place, posted by Dr. Bob on January 29, 2001, at 8:40:26
> It's essential that this feel like a safe place, I'm glad it does to you.
>
> BobDear Dr. Bob,
I respectfully disagree. Psycho-Babble boards should BE a safe place (and in fact are), but it is counter-productive to say that "it's essential that this *FEEL* like a safe place," which contradicts the possibility that *feeling* unsafe and *being* unsafe are two completely different things.
Therapy (or growth, healing, movement forward, positive change) begins when the participant is willing to *feel* something uncomfortable or even unsafe in an environment that is, in fact, inherently safe, such as a supportive peer group. Being able to discern the difference between a difference of opinion and a life-threatening situation is a major therapeutic goal for many people.
As much as I dislike the recent tenor of "name's" postings, he or she is demonstrating perfectly the difference between being civil and being disagreeable. As far as I can tell, "name" has been consistently civil. I understand why some of my closest friends on this board find him/her infuriating, but as long as he/she is civil, their feelings about him/her are their problem.
Please don't impose on PB/PSB the need to "make" people "feel" safe. Check with your clinical colleagues -- dont' take my word for it. People ARE safe here; how they feel is up to them.
Thank you for your consideration.
Mark H.
poster:Mark H.
thread:326
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20001124/msgs/412.html