after being unceremoniously discharged from my psychiatrist/therapist of over 20 years, I’m in the business, once again, of interviewing a new therapist (I’ve found a psychiatrist). I’ve got Medicare and it’s covered…just need to find one that participates with Medicare. Not too hard, but it’s the rapport and the relationship that I’m looking for.
I’ve been in therapy since 5th grade, and have been exposed to a couple of different approaches.
As a fifth grader patient (four and a half decades ago), my memories consist of doing lots of art work, learning to play chess and backgammon, and feeling special. This doctor wound up becoming our family medical and psychiatric doctor, up until he passed 15 years ago.
Anyway. therapy has always been a part of my life, beginning with family therapy, and following with individual sessions. at that age, it really didn’t feel like work. it was just one on one attention, which felt great.
As I got older, therapy stretched out to once a month. I was a senior in high school, in the band, and working. It was wonderful to see a therapist that knew my history and I didn’t have to tell my story again..
I stopped seeing that therapist right after I met my husband. I had just graduated from college (late), and was about to start my first job/career. after that job started, I was promoted twice in a year, and began searching for my next step. I joined the retail sales and marketing team of Disney. It was during this time that I started seeing a new therapist. started to deal with my eating disorder, for the first time ever.
and I had to tell my whole life story and therapy background. again.
so now, at 56 years old, I’m forced to seek a new therapist. someone who deals with eating disorders in adults. and grief about losing a spouse to cancer. and bipolar disorder. enough for a lifetime of treatment.
I interviewed a contender last week. She’s qualified and likable. And has experience with my illnesses. the biggest problem, to me, is her age. late thirties/early forties. I wonder how in the world this woman can help me at her age. But then I immediately think how I am judging her. she deserves a chance, and I really need the help.
So I’ll fill out all her questionnaires and “modules” of text book questions. What do I know? Maybe this will help me in a major way. I have no idea, but I’ll try. And in between doing that, I’ll tell my story again. What the hell? I have nothing to lose.
when the heart is open, all kinds of love is possible. most importantly, self-love.
I’m ready.
New therapists are hard. 💖