Dissociation In Therapy

[JustBe]

I have dissociated during therapy. I think it is all part of the healing process. When we release the pain, sometimes being fully present isn't an option.

 

[Raisin]

I do it every session. I can't stand to be present it seems. It is protective but I am not sure it is productive.

 

[rainy_daze]

@Raisin , it is what it is though. There's a reason it happens, so I think it's best to try not to look at it in terms of productivity. Depending on how much time you lose, I guess there's more things you could get done in a day, but if your mind is needing a break, well I think that's productive for protection. I need protection sometimes. Very interesting point you made though, it's got me thinking.

I think there's positives and negatives to dissociation in therapy. I've only been almost fully present the last two or three sessions (I think) and I've learned so much from them, including to respect the dissociation in a way. My mind did and does what it needs to do. It sucks it chooses this form of defence, but it must think it's the best one for me. It was amazing to full so present though, almost hearing and understanding every word my T was saying, which was even noticed by her. Maybe that presence/grounding comes with time and practice, or trusting the T, although it wasn't something I was actively concentrating on, it just sort of happened.

Learning to accept it, acknowledge it and manage the feelings it brings is important I think, just like managing the dissociation itself. I didn't understand dissociation for a very long time, maybe I was too dissociated to comprehend what it was. I was surprised when I scored quite high on the dissociation screening test. I understand why now though.

Good topic discussion and your honesty is brave @Shellbell , I get why you feel lost. Healing vibes to you through the magical computer box. Hopefully as therapy goes on you'll be more present in sessions.