Vortex, ugh. Can you ignore him and pretend it never happened?

Okay, I emailed a potential therapist, because my coping skills are gone. They are outsourced entirely to Ativan and denial, when I'm not just completely freaking out.

I looked on Psychology Today's website, and checked to see who is near me and on our insurance plan and seems nice (man, is THAT a shot in the dark!). Fingers crossed.

Sounds like a good idea, Steph. It's been a stressful time for you.

I hope the therapist has some helpful suggestions for you, Steph.

When I was taking care of Dad as he was dying, when I broke down in the doctor's office telling her about it all, having her say, "Of course you're stressed--your past year has sucked and it's gonna keep sucking for a while. But there's stuff we can do to help," was a tremendous relief. As was the Xanax. But, honestly, having someone authoritative tell me I had good reason for falling apart meant a lot. More than I thought it would. I mean, I knew things were awful. But there was something about having that acknowledged externally that I found emotionally steadying.

I may not be expressing this well. Sorry.

I may not be expressing this well. Sorry.

No, it makes perfect sense.

I knew things were awful. But there was something about having that acknowledged externally that I found emotionally steadying.

That's what I'm hoping for. And some coping skills. The Ativan I can get from Awesome Doctor.

I hope this therapist is a good fit for you, Steph.

Argh! People! I win tickets to a corporate golf thing, free food and booze. Plus a shuttle walking distance from my place. Invite a friend. Turns out that she lives near the course, so wants to meet there. Fine. But, I've never been, so don't know the setup. She then suggests that I drive to her house and meet there. Um, no. Not only would I have to watch my drinks, I would be On her schedule for when to leave, since my car would be at her house. Why am I expected to change my plans for her convenience? Aren't I the one hooking her up?

I'm sorry people are being especially sucky today.

Good luck with the new therapist.

I can't imagine she'd truly have a problem with you taking the shuttle, Vortex, especially since she's there on your invitation. Maybe she thinks offering her house is easier somehow for you? I would think you could just say no thanks and then peace out any hemming or hawing on your friend's part.

Steph External validation is a wonderful thing. It's one of the big benefits I get from weekly therapy.

I saw my shrink, she lives elsewhere and is ending her contract with the health center in Oct so I'll see her one more time and then who ever they bring in. I'm thinking about looking for a new shrink but I don't think there are many choices where I live and going to the town where my therapist is ....it's tempting but it's more driving and then I'd be more likely to add additional doctors visits to the same trip and that's not a good thing.

Mom's going out of town over night tomorrow night for her birthday and I was thinking "okay so we're getting up and having breakfast and I have the whole day and I'm not leaving the house tomorrow or Sunday..." except I have group therapy. I partly want to skip it but I know that's not a good idea. It's only the second week but it's so tempting.

Now I have to go do my homework.

I'd tell your friend that it's nice of her to offer the shuttle is more convenient for you. Because it is.