I hear that, dude.

I’ve been in and out of therapy since I was 17 and I can’t really see how it’s ever helped me much in the long run. I have pretty much all the same issues I originally went to therapy for. And I’ve rarely had a therapist tell me anything about myself that I didn’t already know. I told someone the other day that therapy is like having a drink to me – it feels really good while you’re doing it, but as soon as it’s over, so is the good feeling.

That said, I agree that everyone could use the time for self-reflection that therapy provides. It’s good to look at yourself, to delve a little into the why behind your actions and desires. To know yourself. And certainly therapy can facilitate that.

@ Wonderlove: And I applaud you for your honesty.

@ Marie: Huh? I’m not complaining about getting email. Quite the contrary. I actually like hearing from folks who read my blog. Hell, if I didn’t want to hear from you, I wouldn’t publish my contact details. :) Keep the emails coming. :)

“EVERYONE should be in therapy.”

I think most people are in therapy, of a kind, in that, therapists will say that talking to family, friends, acquaintances or funkybrownchick is therapy. Trained therapists will say that not everyone needs to see a trained therapist, but they do need to “get things off their chest” or ” Have a release for stress.” There are many ways of doing this.

p.s. I applaud you Funky (stands and claps) for discussing a topic that needs discussion. You touched on very serious issues (shame, embarrassment) that, unfortunately, prevents some people that need help from getting it.

@ Carolina Pereira: Interesting! And, yeah, I lived in Europe over a period of four years; “seeing a therapist” was considered a very “American” thing to do. I even had one ex (Dutch) tell me the US only likes therapy because we’ve all drinking Oprah’s self-help koolaid.

@ Miko: Oh, in the past I’ve seen therapists who were absolutely wacky!! :) Therapists, doctors, ministers, etc. are just as human and flawed as the rest of us. :) By the way, THANKS for reading my blog. Glad you like this post.

@ David: You bring up a GREAT point about interviewing therapists. Consultations are usually free. And, don’t even get me started on universal healthcare. I mentioned Point #3 above because I actually know someone whose employers found out they were on antidepressants because it was in their general medical file; yet ANOTHER reason why health insurance shouldn’t be the responsibility of employers.

@ Mr. Poopy Pants aka Moebius: Your ex sounds emotionally abusive.

@ Baba Doodlius: Funny! :)

@ allegra: You said, “money should never be the reason that someone doesn’t see a therapist.” I totally agree. Money should never be a barrier to healthcare period — whether physical, sexual or emotional health.

@ Diva: THANK YOU for your kind comment. And, Tess’ quote is GREAT!!! :) I love that woman.

@ alicia: So true!!

@ lamesabassman: I like that: “take the time to take care”

lamesabassman…… take the time to take care……

alicia
http://todaystyle.today.com/