After three and a half years with the same therapist, I got a phone call from her asking me to reschedule my appointment.
This had happened several times in the past. But there was something different about her tone and manner on my voice mail.
Instead of one alternative date, she gave me different ones because she was doing this or that, would be out of town, etc.
I felt she was jerking me around, so I wrote her to that effect; the bottom line: "just send me my final bill."
She never responded but I received the final bill. No apology, or statement which of was right.
Was I oversensitive or correct about her not caring?
- What's Your Take
The relationship with a therapist is a sensitive, trusting one. Once there's mistrust and/or offence taken by either party, the atmosphere for a client's insights, self-revelation and personal growth is hampered.
It doesn't matter who was "right." You found her message unusual and off-putting; she may've been stressed in her own life, yet perhaps could've been more professional in her delivery. It's time to find a new therapist.
Nevertheless, do NOT dismiss as false or insincere any of the counselling you gained from her. This was a single incident, not a denial of her skills or your progress.
Two years ago, I found my boyfriend in a web of lies.
He said a guy from work lived just down the street.
Then this girl started calling MY home for him, and showing up at the door.
He said they were first cousins. She even walked with him to pick up my son from school.
She knew exactly when to call when he was back on night shift.
It suddenly took him four hours to go to the grocery store. Like I'm stupid and supposed to believe him.
Recently, his mom died and I was given her make-up case. Inside I found his love letters from this girl dating back to 1982.
I called him on everything but he denies it. I can't get past it.
Or should I save my money and get out of Dodge?
- Not Stupid
Use your smarts and plan your future, without permitting yourself to be played the fool indefinitely.
You don't even mention love, yet seem entangled in his lies as if you're being prevented from ending this charade.
You and your son need to live in an atmosphere where you know what's going on, can believe in what you're told, and are not second-guessing what's going wrong next.
Yes, save your money, look into available accommodation, and be positive about ways to have a fresh start that boost your sense of self-worth. This could be anything from taking an upgrading course to joining a community centre's fitness class, to finding a counsellor through a social service agency, to discuss self-esteem issues. You go, girl!
I've been married 15 years, am in love with my husband, our sex life is better then ever.
However, a year ago at a party, a friend brought his brother along and we instantly clicked.
Whenever I see him in the group, we flirt, and hang out together.
He'll even ask me to slow dance with him. (Sometimes I do). My husband is always there, trusts me and never questions me about this. But I know he doesn't trust this guy.
I know this man is unhappily married - he's always complaining that they never have sex. Why am I so drawn to him?
I'd never cheat on my husband but I can't stop thinking about this man. I want my life back how it was before I met him.
What's wrong with me?
- Horrible Wife
The more you label yourself "horrible" or bad, the sooner you'll allow yourself to give in to this guy's obvious seduction.
The fact of feeling matching chemistry with someone outside your marriage, is not a sign of moral depravity. It's common, especially after marriages settle into a routine… that's why an earlier restlessness which many people feel, is called "the seven-year itch." It's how you handle it that matters.
Don't scratch this one. Avoid the guy. He's onto your vulnerability… he may even sense you're a "rescuer" whose sympathies are drawn to people who wear their unhappiness like a magnet.
Your husband is far classier, relying on your good sense to back away from Mr. Tease. Show hubby he's right.
Tip of the day:
The therapist/client relationship has to feel like a good fit on both sides.