Has anyone seen a counselor to deal with AI stuff? | Arthritis Information

 

I'm seeing one next week for the first time and I must admit, I am a bit nervous about it. I'm not quite sure what to expect. I just have so many negatives going on and I've always been a super happy upbeat person.

No- but let me know how you like it. I've thought about it.I've used counseling in the past for other issues.  Made me feel better after just one visit.  The therapist told me all my feelings were justified and that was all I needed was someone to confirm my feelings were valid.  Good luck on your visit! [QUOTE=owiemom]I'm seeing one next week for the first time and I must admit, I am a bit nervous about it. I'm not quite sure what to expect. I just have so many negatives going on and I've always been a super happy upbeat person. Absolutely, and ditto on Goldie's post.  I knew I would need therapy to keep some sanity as this disease progresses.  It helps to have someone gently encouraging you to keep trying.   I went a few times, and it really helped.  Just know that not every counselor is great, and not every patient will like even good counselors.  So don't give up if the first one isn't a match.  I loved the woman I saw, it was wonderful to hear her questions, the questions of someone who didn't have any stake in my life, or concern with the outcome of things.  She also validated my emotions in a way that I don't think someone very close could have.  Even though you know its their job, they went to school to understand that it is normal & healthy to have an outlet for your emotions, and they are there for that purpose.  Absolutely, actually I see two counselors, one of which is a pain management psychologist and incredibly brilliant.

I put myself in counseling ages ago as I believe chronic illness brings up many, many issues which we need to deal with - grief, loss, adapting, adjusting, anger, fear, pain, anxiety and depression. I also deal with being a single parent on top of all that and have other stresses in my life like an emotional abusive, completely out of control ex-husband I have to deal with. I need places I can debrief safely in.

My opinion is that you won't make it through the many changes,  diseases like these bring, nearly as well without it.

I am very blessed as neither of my counselors cost me anything.

Go for it. You can only benefit from it. Cordelia2008-09-11 18:53:03Agreed. I have realized over the years that chronic pain

presents extraordinary challenges to people who "look" fine

on the outside, but are desperately seeking a way to

manage the pain they are experiencing.

 

In the throes of chronic pain after surgery last year, a counsellor in the hospital

i was in helped me a great deal. she was empathetic, wise,

and mapped out some exploratory options to help deal with this.

 

Again, after surgery this year, another counsellor has helped a lot

within a hospital environment. chronic pain is a serious medical issue,

and counselling can help not only those of us who are battling with pain,

but can also help a family understand the disabling effects of this chronic illness. I've never seen one; but I think it's a good idea. Having a chronic illness is difficult and can easily bring on depression and that can easily get out of hand if you don't deal with it early on. Having someone to help you work through it is a good idea in my opinion. Hopefully the person you see can help you work things without jumping in and starting you on antidepressants right off the bat. I personally think those are over used. Not saying that some people don't need them; but I think sometimes you can learn to deal with things without them with a little help.

 

Good Luck.

I've been going to a counselor for years, initially for other reasons, but my medical situation is now definitely one of my reasons.  As a matter of fact, I'm sitting here waiting for her to call from her lodgings near Mayo because unfortunately my therapist herself has developed some difficult health situations, so now she is acutely aware of all that it does to a person.  She has been extremely helpful to me.

 

I agree that not every therapist is right for every person, so find yourself a good match.  Some therapists are more laid back and let you do most of the talking, others structure things more.  Find someone you're comfortable with.  As for what to expect, you will be talking and exploring what's going on.  Your initial session might include a lot of background about yourself as the therapist gets to know you, or you might delve right into to whatever issue is most prominent for you.  Just know that sometimes feelings get brought up that may feel awkward or difficult, and that's ok.  After your session, you may prefer some time alone to process it, or you may prefer the company of a loved one if bringing up the issues made you sad.

 

I hope you find it as helpful as it has been for me.  Let us know how it goes.

 

And PS - Cordy, it's great to see you around!

Copyright ArthritisInsight.com