Therapists

[Take2]

Why is it so hard to find a therapist that has reasonable hours?  My job is insanely busy and I have a 5 year old child.  Trying to get to the therapist between 9 am to 4pm weekdays is very very hard. 

Couple that with trying to find one that actually understands BPD and those who have been affected.

I feel like I am striking out.

I am going to a therapist that I like, but I actually think I know as much or more about this than her and between that feeling and the fact that I can only get into see her about once or twice a month depending on her schedule and mine... .    it's just not doing much for me... .    I know I need more help.

Does anyone have any suggestions for how to find a good therapist who can deal with someone who has been emotionally abused... .    ?

I guess I can start there... .    and I don't want to change therapists... .    I do like this woman that I see now... .  but I really need it to more often to make progress... .  

[P.F.Change]

You might try the PsychologyToday.com "find a therapist" tool. You can do an advanced search and look for someone who specializes in trauma or PTSD. From there you can do some phone or email interviews to see who feels like a potential fit for your needs and schedule.

Good luck--I hope you can find someone. 

PF

[oletimefeelin]

If working through these issues is a priority then you will have to make time.  My work isn't the best about this sort of thing, and they allowed me to take a long lunch every week without asking any questions.  Some therapists do have evening or even weekend appointments, but they are reserved for long time clients.  After a while they'll work with you as their client base turns over.

Some experience with BPD is helpful, but not necessary in my opinion.  Therapy is about you and what this chaotic relationship brought out of you. 

[Suzn]

Some experience with BPD is helpful, but not necessary in my opinion.  Therapy is about you and what this chaotic relationship brought out of you. 

I agree with this. I was lucky, my T does work with pwBPD too, I did ask for someone who was experienced with BPD when I called around. I thought it would be easier if they had some experience. It's good, IMHO, that your T has some working knowledge of BPD. (I'm not sure if that's what your saying Take2, or that she doesn't have enough knowledge) About the 3rd session with mine I told her "BPD is HER issue, we need to talk more about MY issues." I got a thumbs up from her and we proceeded from there. There was a "why" I ended up in this relationship and stayed, more than one "why" I should add.

[Take2]

Yeah,  I totally get that... .  there is serious crap going on in my head that has allowed me to not only stay in the abusive relationship, but to have flat out begged for it over and over.

I will continue with my therapy.  I DO make time for it. But its difficult when her schedule seems as limited as mine.

Thanks for the comments.

I will try and focus more on improving my issues.

And honestly want to stop talking or thinking about his... .  

[Blazing Star]

Hi Take2,

I relate to your scheduling challenges! I only am able to see mine about once a month - but she is Awesome! A way round it for me was to ask for 'homework' so I can keep doing the work when I am not seeing her - like books to read, mindfulness exercises to do, journalling etc.

Also a couple of times I have found a friend who will take my daughter for an hour while I am in therapy, this has helped.

Love Blazing Star