Posted by rainyday on April 29, 2004, at 10:46:48
In reply to A good therapist fit, posted by Dinah on April 29, 2004, at 9:34:49
My current T was recommended by my p-doc, who my husband found through the website of the American Psychiactric Association (or whatever it's called). She has no receptionist (none of my Ts have had - just answering machines). She shares a gorgeous old house that has been made into offices with other Ts. She has very subdued lighting in her office, and usually some sage being burned as purification. She brings her doggy to the office. There are wave sound machines in the hallways so privacy is maintained.
It's a very serene environment. My T is petite and tidy whereas I usually feel like I'm an unmade bed.
She's warm and compassionate. Sometimes she'll go off on the same tangent that we have in the past, even though it was fruitfull. It doesn't bother me at all. Sometimes our sessions seem to me to be social visits because I feel so comfortable talking to her. She always gives me homework to do, and I am pretty good about following it up. I am trying to be active in my recovery and she makes it easier for me.
I have had a few Ts that were bad fits. One was male and we met in a very sterile-feeling, impersonal office setting. He sat and took notes and fired questions at me and I never could figure out what he was trying to get at. I ended up leaving him a message that I didn't feel comfortable talking to him, and he was nice enough to leave a message back saying "no hard feelings".
My other favourite T was from when I lived "up north" and was recommended by a friend who was going through a separation at the time, as I had been contemplating. She too had her doggy in the room with her. The office was in a woodsy area and oozed serenity. I always felt flea bitten when I left but I didn't care.
The setting is very important to how I respond. If I don't feel comfortable in the room I hardly notice who I'm talking to. I'm a real "nester". I have noticed that whenever I move. I don't feel settled until I get at least 1 room done. Then I can relax.
My current T also runs a women's wellness circle (where I cried this week). She is seeing a local shaman and is going to see if I can see her too. She knows I am intrigued by spirituality and am open to alternative practices.
I am very grateful to have found her.
poster:rainyday
thread:341263
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040426/msgs/341292.html