cbt

[cbtissues]

I'm struggling hugely. I have severe anxiety. (medicated)

My life is complicated. Am having cbt for this anxiety.

Feel like giving up though - it isn't working.

I try so hard but the big problems that cause much of my anxiety are not things that can be changed. (my family set up) So the therapist has pushed these aside as 'not problems I can help you with.'

Things I really want to achieve are not obtainable goals - so again, need to forget about them.

I know cbt is about focusing on here and now, but feels everything I say, is not suitable to be discussed. Anything I do say is categorised as I'm overgeneralising and I feel I can't talk, as my words are picked apart and the meaning is lost.

It feels that cbt is just about putting a fake smile on, forgetting all the problems and looking for the bright side.

Am I just missing the point or too stupid to do this?

I just want to cry.

That sounds awful.

I think cbt works best when it's adapted to the individual and used alongside other counselling styles. One size does not fit all! Your therapist sounds very negative and judgey. Yes, there may be things that can't be changed, but you could work on how to cope with them better, for example, or how you might be able to change them in the future. Can you try a different therapist?