When I first realized that I needed serious help and couldn’t fight alone anymore it was extremely scary. I wasn’t sure what to do or where to go, all I knew was that I needed help. I had been struggling on and off for a long time by myself. It wasn’t until I was about 23 years old that I came to this realization. At that point having a mental illness was still very taboo. I googled and found the first psychiatrist that would see me. I remember being curled up in the waiting room waiting for my name to be called. It was this psychiatrist that diagnosed me with Bipolar 2. It was also this woman who suggested I talk to someone. This is where my experience with a therapist begins.
I’ve seen quite a few therapists since then and was lucky to find people who I was able to jive with. However, it wasn’t until recently that I realized that choosing the right therapist is incredibly important. You have to advocate for yourself and really know yourself and what your feelings are as well as what goals you would like to achieve. Do your research. Psychologytoday.com is a wonderful place to start. They add their backgrounds and what they specialize in so you can see if it is a good fit.
After moving to Salem from Rhode Island I was lost. Like real lost. Empty, scared and confused. I hadn’t set up finding a therapist here (party foul) and didn’t have a support group here. I ended up having to back to Rhode Island and live with my parents (shout out to having a supportive family) and go back into an outpatient program. While I was there I did my research and began my quest to find a good therapist.
This, my friends, is when I found Jen (insert angels singing here). She was professional, caring, and took her job seriously. We did a phone interview to get to know each other and see if we were a good fit for each other. She said if we didn’t end up jiving she would help me find someone else who could further help me. Holy shit, I had hit the jackpot. She is just a walk away from my apartment! She has helped me learn more about myself. She helps me make progress. I leave our sessions feeling like I’ve done something good. She takes the weight off my chest. Some sessions are better than others but we always end positively and she’ll even give me some “homework” to do in between sessions. I’m blessed to have her in my life.
The point is .. find yourself a Jen. If you meet with a therapist, I would recommend seeing them a few times before making a decision if you want to continue seeing them. It is also important to make sure that they have the time slots you need. You don’t want to exchange good vibes with a therapist when they only have 10am appointments and you don’t get out of work until 4. If it’s not a good fit .. move on baby! You’re not going to hurt their feelings or upset them. They want what’s best for you too! Keep it moving and find your person. They exist, they’re out there. Advocate for yourself and keep talking. You can do this!
The trick was to surrender to the flow
A Bowl of Oatmeal 