What kind of therapy would help? - Mental Health Message Board

veggie girl · 08-22-2005, 01:09 PM

I've been kind of depressed, confused, emotionally dead and frustrated for a few years now and I'm looking to do something about it but don't know what kind of therapy would help me.

I'm currently trying to figure out what career i should pursue, how to get more in touch with my creativity and deal with some basic things in life like a sick parent and getting older (i'm 34)

I spoke with a college counseller but it seemed like all she was doing was validating my current state. She kept saying, "where you are in life is where you're suposed to be." (at the time I was unemployed and not even looking for a job and she's telling me, basically, that everything is okay!!)

But, I don't WANT to just settle for my current state, I want to change it. I want to find something that I could make a living at, to explore my mental capacity, to remove my emotional blocks and to increase my creativity. Hence, I want therapy to help me change and grow, NOT so I can sit and ***** about my life once a week.

I know there are various dispiclines and schools of thought within psychology/therapy and am looking for one that will help bring about CHANGE in my life. I'm also interested in hypnotherapy to unlock my inner desires and interests.

Does anyone have any ideas? Any help would be appreciated. I'm really in desperate need of some help in my life. Thanks

knotme · 08-25-2005, 05:21 AM

hola chica,
depressed, confused and emotionally dead is very broad and maybe symptoms of past traumatic events. Without knowing the details, you can seek help from psychiatrists, general practitioners, social workers, counsellors or occupational therapists. After that they might refer you to cognitive behavior psychotherapy, if needed.

as far as what you're suppose to do with your life, I can't really tell you, cuz I'm looking for the same thing too. I don't want to just "make a living", I want to be happy with it. I'm struggling with bipolar and it hasn't been easy for me. Sounds like you're interested in the medical field though, if you like to care for people, like sick parents and getting old as you mentioned.

I think it's great that you're back in school, have the DRIVE and DERTERMINATION to make a change. MOTIVATION IS 90% OF THE BATTLE. I think you're on your way to a great start. Good luck!!

bwsinfonia13 · 08-25-2005, 06:26 PM

I find good reading to help. I'm going to be starting a new book in a few days, I have to finish thhis book I'm on first. But the book I'll be starting might help, it's called "the Art of Happiness" by the Dalai Lama chapter one 'the Right to Happiness'.
I just like the way that sounds. Not sure as to how much it will help as I haven't read it. I personally hope it will help me. and you maybe.

Ruth6:11 · 08-26-2005, 03:57 PM

Hi veggie girl!!
There are alot of tests that can help you determine what careers would be best suited for your abilities, education, experience & talents. The best are ones that you pay for but I've run across some good ones online.

I would agree that cognitive therapy is probably the most Goal oriented therapy out there. Sounds like what you're looking for than the type that probes your childhood, huh??

One thing you can do right away is start a journal. Write in it everyday, even more if the mood strikes. No one is going to see it but you so if it seems a bit stilted to begin with, just keep in mind that it will help start your creative juices flowing sooner or later.

Giving is always another good way to unlock stuff.
Volunteering, helping friends/family, helping others here on the Boards....
I'm 51 and still don't know what my purpose in life is - somehow its helped me to keep coming to Healthboards since my Dad died - maybe this place is part of my purpose...
Ruth

veggie girl · 08-27-2005, 03:22 PM

Thank you guys for the advice, I really appreciate it.