Therapy

[lavendervibes]

NC for this one.

Hoping someone has experience of this or can advice.
I have recently been seeing a private therapist and also started on anti depressants. This is following a DV relationship which I came out of recently. I am struggling with suicidal thoughts (hence the AD’s, which are helping) but also felt I may benefit from a therapist.
the first appointment was mostly gauging anxiety and depression levels and briefly covering what I could get from therapy. The subsequent sessions have focused on the relationship, how I feel and how to feel less anxious. At the 3rd session (they have been weekly) she said she may not be best equipped to deal with this and it may be a good idea to look into another therapist for support. This was quite hard to hear and whilst I appreciate her candour it’s left me feeling vulnerable and unsure what to do.

is this common for therapists to do? Of course it’s isn’t cheap and I feel I have invested somewhat and now to start over feels overwhelming.
If anyone has had a similar situation it would be interesting to hear.

I actually think thats amazing that she admitted it therapists specialise in different areas. Unless its nhs then you get what you're given. But she's basically saying she understands it's a lot of money so for the same money you could find someone who specialises in this area which will be more beneficial to you

Sorry that it’s left you feeling bad. That’s understandable as you have put effort in but feel like you are no further on.
It’s not that common to do this, but it’s good ethical practice. Of course ideally you wouldn’t have had three sessions and you could have established this in the first meeting, but still it’s better to find out now. Did she elaborate any more about why she can’t help or have any recommendations about finding the right person?

Thanks both. Yes, you’re right - it’s good she has told me and not carried on if she isn’t best suited. She said she would email me possible recommendations that could help, I just can’t bring myself to look yet.
Yes, ideally it wouldn’t have taken 3 sessions but I guess there isn’t anything I can do about that now. It’s just made me a bit cautious and rejected. I know this isn’t necessarily true but it’s how I feel at the moment.

I get that 3 sessions and then an onward point feels rejecting. It takes a lot to go through an assessment in therapy and the relationship is forming all the time. I'm sorry it didn't work out.

Could you actively ask this person for details of other therapists who would be able to work with you in your current circumstances and mental health challenges? I recommend double checking for professional registration.