Does Anyone Think Of Their Therapist Like This

[zoie33]

I have a hard time asking and accepting help from people so I've decided to start thinking of my T as a teacher instead. Has anybody thought of their T as a teacher? As someone who is teaching them the skills to get better on their own vs someone who is helping you?

 

[BlueOrange]

That sounds constructive to me. A good therapist relationship is indeed very different from a friendship, and from a lot of other 'helping' relationships.

 

[GWhizz]

My T works off an attachment model. She always reminds me that I veer towards caregiver not careseeker. But it's okay to learn how to get your needs met this time through a healthy template. Teaching and helping are different terms but can be seem as synonymous imo. Whatever makes it easier to accept that initial support, sure. But I really believe you need to work on accepting your need and right to HELP rather than focusing on terminology which may help short-term but be a longer term obstacle in your progress.

 

[Justmehere]

I think of therapists often as coaches instead of someone helping me in a way where they are doing something to me.

 

[ladee]

If changing that in your mind helps you..the go for it.
You know she is your T and reframing it to help You feel more comfortable sounds like you are trying to make this work and if it helps..use it.

 

[Leighlee87]

I do. But that might also be because I am a school teacher. We often discuss the tactics I use to help my students with emotional stuff (self-esteem, anxiety, bullying, etc), and turn it back towards myself and how I could provide self-care. So, yeah, it is an easy enough extension. I think of my therapist as a teacher, a guide, and a mentor.

 

[zoie33]

I am a former teacher so yes that's something I can relate with. That's why I choose to think of my T as a teacher

 

[Deleted member 34328]

I agree with @ladee If referring to a Therapist as a teacher helps or just makes sense to you, then why not?

Part of helping is teaching. Part of the healing process is learning new coping skills. Isn't that what a teacher does? Teaches new things? Encourages and supports?

 

[BlueOrange]

I am a former teacher so yes that's something I can relate with. That's why I choose to think of my T as...

One very positive thing from this is that you would also think of a teacher as a peer. We often expect therapists to be perfect, and I've expected that from teachers too. But if you've done that job yourself, then you'll be aware of how teachers face difficulties, and that sometimes, you need to try a few approaches before you understand what the student really needs from you.

 

[Deleted member 37474]

I have only had one visit with mine so far, but I look to her as a spirit guide, mentor and educated professional. I get way too attached to supportive friends. I am making every effort within myself not to feel this way about my therapist. Her personality seems really strong and compassionate, and I think that she has the tools to empower me, and keep it professional.