Just started therapy.

[Jmichael21298]

I had my first session with a therapist today, I scheduled it after having relapsed last Thursday. We had a two hour session today and I was diagnosed with depression, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder. I cannot begin to describe how helpful it was going in to talk to someone and get everything off my chest. We discussed my childhood and time I spent in prison in Mexico, things I hadn't talked to anyone in detail about, but should have years go. If you can afford it please go, I know I don't stand a chance of staying clean without the help which has been exponential. I was nervous going in but don't regret it for a second. Again if you are trying to get clean, building a support system is essential, go talk to someone.

[3doors]

Thanks JMike - what great advice. I look forward to  my session.

[3doors]

Wow - thanks Bkitty!
OK that doesn't sound bad at all...kinda fun. I'll stop worrying about it and pick out something funny to watch. I'm thinking "Anchorman". It's been awhile.
Preciate it

[Jmichael21298]

The short answer is no I don't know what you can expect not knowing your story or who you are going to see. I will say that reciting what you want to say is a waste of time, therapy involves a living animal in this case you and no matter how well you think you know yourself the results will be unpredictable at best. Just remind yourself that this person is here to help you even if it seems like they are attacking you. Be 100% honest or they won't be able to help you. This is for you and only you can bring to light the issues that are plaguing your conscious they are there to help you resolve those demons. I wish you the best of luck please let me know how it goes if you have any more questions feel free to ask

[Bkitty]

It was a very liberating experience,,I was sooo afraid to go. I had myself all psyched up and was trying to talk myself outta going.  When you show up for your appoint you do all the sign in info,,forms,,etc. Then when its time they will call you and take you back. The first thing I noticed in the room was all the kleenex boxes. I was literally shaking. I didnt even know where to begin and just busted out in tears before I even said anything,,my therapist sat there and didnt say much at first ( I think she was letting me get it out) then started asking questions and it took off from there. She validated all my feelings that I was having and it made me comfortable and feel like Im not nuts afterall. Im just sick,,and that was OK because we all fall sometimes. She recommended that I see a psychiatrist and medications. She also recommended Intensive Outpatient Treatment which I attended daily for 30days. In the beginning I felt awkward in group and clamed up but slowly I opened up and I let it out. It was the BEST thing I have ever done for myself!! Now I often wonder,,"Why did I wait so long?" You have nothing to be scared of. You will feel sooo much better and that lil step you take when you go will open up that door to freedom and you life again! I promise~Bkitty

[3doors]

Kitty/J,
I (unfortunately) have never been to therapy before and have an appt for later this week. If either of you have the time could you briefly let me know what to expect? Withdrawing from benzos and even stuff like this has me a little freaked.

I'm starting to plan everything I want to say before hand and recite it...maybe it's time to get a book and some tea - thanks

[Bkitty]

I hear ya! I would be so mentally and emotionally drained afterwards but there was a peace in my heart and like you said Its so liberating. Secrets and keeping things in is what keeps us sick.

[Jmichael21298]

The thing that scared me the most was being completely honest with someone, but that is absolutely essential. Seeing a therapist in a safe environment changed my perspective on everything. I truly believeHaving an outside third party to help you analyze everything that's goin on is one of the stronger weapons in my arsenal to finally kick this. It was tough and I definitely held back since it was my first session but I'm actually excited to go deeper down the rabbit hole. I hadn't cried in years and as exhausting as it was I cannot tell you how liberating it felt.

[Bkitty]

Aftercare and Recovery and NA is what was my saving grace this time around. For some reason it was the single hardest thing I ever had to do-to take that step. Now,,in hinsight,,that was the best thing I ever ever did,,asking for help. I too had depression issues,,that was immedicatly addressed when I started therapy with antideppressants and a mood stabilizer. I feel sooo much better (for the most part) and since that was addressed my desire to use opiates is gone. You have to keep that guard up,,,I was tested yesterday actually and I almost failed. This is a HUGE HUGE monumental step you took!! Congrats! i look forward to seeing your progress~Bkitty

[3doors]

Good to know it helped. I start next week and wasn't looking forward to it....but if it has a chance of helping I'll give it an honest shot.

[littlebit667]

Good for you!  Understanding WHY we use is so healing.  I