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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 4 of 4. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Susan47 on December 11, 2004, at 20:07:57
I saw my ex-psychologist very briefly yesterday, in his outer office.
It was a one-year anniversary visit for me, of standing at his counter and announcing that I was leaving my husband and my children. This announcement was a surprise to myself. It was huge. I couldn't believe I'd said anything like that, but when it was out, I knew it was the most natural thing in the world for me, a decision I'd made subconsciously, and one I'd probably been living with for a long time. But I digress....
My ex-T looked too normal, like I'd rarely seen him look in the past. Unanimated, although he certainly talked, and kind of lifeless. It was depressing. We wished each other good Christmases, and I was off.
I've been thinking for the last few hours, about him, and how he was in therapy, and how he seems to me now. I know this isn't all transference. He's genuinely keyed-down, to the point of wearing drab clothes, and even looking drab in complexion. I don't think he's ill; it's not that. It's something coming from his brain.
I know I sound weird talking about this, I know my perceptions may be off-key in vision. However, my question - FINALLY - for you is this: do you yourself believe that it's possible that therapy actually animates the therapist, that it's GOOD FOR HIM or her, and that it makes some therapists feel alive, feel good?
Just as an aside, I have a job working directly with the public, I meet probably a hundred new people every day and help at least half of them in a highly personal manner, and I find I've never felt happier. Wow. What a word.
Posted by Susan47 on December 11, 2004, at 20:14:59
In reply to A Therapist question for you, Gardener Girl-long, posted by Susan47 on December 11, 2004, at 20:07:57
BTW I do NOT think I'm my ex-T's only patient ... so if it sounds like that, ignore that aspect of the issue.
Geez, I wrote him a note yesterday and actually suggested he RETIRE to get rid of me ..... who does she think SHE is, that Susan? She was rushing the letter, and you know how things you say or write sometimes don't sound the way you mean them to ...
Posted by gardenergirl on December 12, 2004, at 21:19:59
In reply to A Therapist question for you, Gardener Girl-long, posted by Susan47 on December 11, 2004, at 20:07:57
>However, my question - FINALLY - for you is this: do you yourself believe that it's possible that therapy actually animates the therapist, that it's GOOD FOR HIM or her, and that it makes some therapists feel alive, feel good?
Answering from my own experience as a trainee...
I do find that when I am doing what I love, I am happier and more energetic. T think that's likely true for everyone. I to think there is a certain kind of person who does get energy from being around other people versus from being alone. My guess is that people who enjoy working with the public are that type of person.
I hope that answers your question >
gg
Posted by Susan47 on December 13, 2004, at 20:35:28
In reply to Re: A Therapist question for you, Gardener Girl-long, posted by gardenergirl on December 12, 2004, at 21:19:59
It does answer my question, gg, in true therapist style.
Thank you.
This is the end of the thread.
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