Anyone else having therapy/counselling?

[AllTheHippos]

I've been having therapy weekly for about 9 months. I've found it really helpful despite it being a painful and gruelling process. It's mostly around increasing my understanding of my dysfunctional family and talking about of my child's special needs.

I do find myself wondering how much longer I'll carry on with it. Is this normal? I'm a bit resentful that I'm spending money on it every week, which I could be saving.

Don't know whether to take a break for a bit or if I'm feeling this urge because "the work" is hard and I'm trying to avoid this.

Does anyone else have any experience with this?

Hopeful bump

I have the same feelings of resentment of the cost but honestly probably couldn't cope without him at this point so will have to suck it up for a bit longer.

I started again last week, after having 12 sessions on the NHS 10 years ago. I’m paying for it this time, £50 an hour every week. Second appointment tomorrow.

I’m trying not to resent the cost as I was nearing rock bottom after an awful year last year and a close relative is terminally ill, so I need something to help me to stay strong through what this year will bring. I think I have some sort of attachment issue too, and I’m just generally very down. I’m trying to see it as an investment into my future as I don’t really feel I have one at the moment, despite being reasonably successful on the outside. Still, I’m not successful in the ways I’d like to be.

I’m having psychoanalytic therapy. What are you having?

I've been in therapy for 15 years.

This is not typical, though. I'd say between 2 and 5 years is more standard. It is long-term. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy tends to be longer (i.e. towards the larger end of the 2-5-year scale), as does analysis.

Thanks very much for the replies.

Not sure what to do. Maybe will give myself a bit more thinking time.

@AllTheHippos maybe speak to your counsellor to see what they think? They should be able to tailor treatment to your budget to an extent.

I think that's a great idea, @TashieWoo.

@AllTheHippos - Also, speaking to your therapist about it might help address any underlying issues, i.e. fear of what happens if you stay in therapy, and your doubts - both of which are critical parts of the process. As well as financial concerns, too.

When I was finding it hard to pay my therapist, she offered me a reduced rate. One person I know suspended payment for some time, after indepth discussions with their therapist.

And they may also do fortnightly/3 weekly. I see most clients on a fortnightly basis once the initial crisis or need has passed.

And this may not apply to you but it's a perfectly normal part of life in therapy to suddenly have an internal conflict where you 'need' therapy but are pissed off at yourself for 'needing' it or you have put your needs in life so far down the scale that you resent it. Almost everyone I meet in therapy has put family (parents, children, everyone) or work before their needs.

These are really really helpful posts. Thank you so much.