Therapy Recommendation

[PlainJane]

I've got myself in a sticky situation. I've had my symptoms for quite sometime, before I contacted professional help. And I did so anonymously for several reasons I won't get into. Once i got an official diagnosis, I stopped mostly because of funds. I know I need it but I can't get therapy right now. Not really sure what to do I see my life falling apart around me. Not only is my funds an issue but I can't have any association with a therapist on record because I am fighting to get custody of a sibling. I have received comfort and practical help from the people on this site continuously. I am unhealthly dependent to it. I feel it's the only source that's available to me. It's starting to not be enough, and not really sure what to do. Any practical suggestions?

 

[VioletButterfly]

Gosh, I hear you and am so sorry. Some suggestions I would offer as I've been in a similar boat are the following: groups that might meet in your area that focus on your concerns (12 steps, mental health groups, church groups - a lot of the big churches have programs that you can attend for free that are centered on helping and healing). Also, a lot of churches have pastoral care departments that can offer assistance through counseling, sponsoring counseling, or who can refer you to non-profits in your area that might be able to offer assistance. If you prefer, you can go directly to your local non-profit community to see what's out there for you. Many people don't know what's in their backyard, so I encourage you to really work this avenue to care. Sometimes it's a process and will take one or two non-profits to get you to the non-profit that can really help you, so don't be discouraged. Many of these will offer free counseling or will help you pay for care. Oh, also - what about local colleges? If they have psych and/or social work departments, then they might offer reduced rates or free therapy. They can also be valuable in terms of referrals.

I would be very clear with these people though that you can't be put into any "systems" so that your name/social are safe from being flagged due to the guardianship issue you're dealing with.

I hope you find the care you need. Good luck and hang in there. :tup: VB

 

[Recovery4Me]

but I can't have any association with a therapist on record because I am fighting to get custody of a sibling.

Was this specifically stated by an attorney or a self labeled stigma? The reason I ask is that some juvenile or family services of cities, have the funds for the members of a family to go through a social worker in order to promote a healthier communication and help the transition.

At one time, it was considered a smart move to record establishing one's preparation and interest to properly parent. However as budgets, times and law do change...I now ask.:hug:

 

[PlainJane]

It was partially self labeled and partially indicated by the social worker on my siblings case. We live in a very small old fashioned town. Not very understanding people for the most part. The conversations I hear, the things I see them do, I know it won't go over well, the stigma is dominant.

 

[Recovery4Me]

I see...so sorry. Thank you for your kind response.:hug:

Have you considered Mindfulness courses for free through you-tube or some of our media posted? It does help some with good results in awareness.

 

[PlainJane]

Hmm I have not! But I will start immediately. I'm just feel at a loss all the time and pathetic, embarrassed, ashamed even though I know I shouldn't. I have looked at lots of stuff in the media section and have found it helpful. I also have a couple workbooks to use (which I was supposed to use with the therapist, oops) but I didn't get very far with them. Who would've thought that reading books would be so stressful. Not kidding I've done about 20 pages in each and collectively there's 600 pages. Thanks!

 

[Deleted member 28942]

Hi @Jane1991,

Another option to consider is taking medications such as antidepressants. Antidepressants might help you with your mood like anxiety and depression. Of course, I am not a doctor and you should consult with a doctor. Also, I am not sure if taking medications will have any impact on your custody battle. If nothing else works stay strong. You are not alone. We are here for you.

Regards,
UniversalBeing

 

[Tinyflame]

I understand @Jane1991 , I work in health care & with some of the social support services (as well as suicide prevention/ counseling clinics etc, I have taken some of their courses, know the people well), & here one knows everyone in the field(s) & you can be definitely black-balled. Also, huge issues with confidentiality/ gossip.

Best wishes. :hug:

 

[sun seeker]

Sounds like a rough situation.

Here is a partial list of the things I have tried over the years on this journey, in addition to therapy. Some have helped, some not, it's a very individual thing. I haven't done them all at once! Maybe something on the list will help you.

co-counseling (I posted on what this is recently but now I'm not sure where - let me know and I'll look for it if you're interested)
diet changes
anti-depressants
St. John's wort
many, many, many books
shamanic journeying
working with dreams
journalling
homeopathy
meditation
EFT
practicing gratitude
energy work of various modalities
brain gym
sweat lodges
affirmations
nutritional supplements
Jin Shin (Japanese method of self-administered acupressure)
acupuncture
prayer
inner child work
support groups

Honestly what helps the most is talking with people who understand. Everything else is in addition. It's taken a long time, and I am sure I will be working on myself for the rest of my life. Keep participating here, you're doing great. Let us be a support system for you.

 

[PlainJane]

I'm definitely interested. I don't want to stay in this circle. Thank you for this list. This is awesome.

 

[sun seeker]

Okay, found it. It's post 23 in the thread "Is It Okay to Feel Sad For Oneself???"

A quick search turned up a variety of sites offering information and training. I don't know which is best because I've mostly picked up the method from friends. Maybe one of the sites would be able to tell you whether there is training in your area.

 

[PlainJane]

Thank you sun seeker so very much ;)