If I get a toothache I go see the dentist. If I get sick or hurt I go see the doctor. If I feel like I'm not handling my thoughts properly why not see a therapist?
Maybe it's because I come from a proud family with Italian roots or maybe it's because my family was always afraid to show weakness and affection, but they have always discouraged therapy. My dad seems to think everything can be solved with rational conversation and when that doesn't work you can just walk away. Or, if you're feeling down or stressed just self medicate with a drink or a little marijuana. Nevermind the inappropriate circumstances of your childhood, that doesn't matter. Above all, if there's a big problem, just ignore it and it will work itself out in the end (and if even that doesn't work just throw a little money at it to quite things down).
I don't blame my dad. Actually, I don't blame either of my parents or even their parents. They have all done the best with what they had and if you come from a culture that didn't have therapists (or couldn't ever afford one) I can understand how going to see one wouldn't even enter the picture when you're having a problem.
Lucky for me, I am in a place to talk with a professional. I think seeing a therapist is one of the better moves I've made in recent years and I'm sad I didn't do it a lot sooner. I watched an amazing documentary called Sketches of Frank Gehry directed by Sydney Pollack and Gehry didn't become the prolific architect he is without the help of a therapist. It really makes you realize that therapy just helps you become a better person and doesn't always mean there is something terribly wrong.
Comments (1)
I'm a big, big therapy fan, and in fact I think I might make a career of it eventually. I think it's so much more complex than the typical go-to-the-doctor-because-you're-sick thing, and I think pretty much anyone who is open to it can become a better person as a result of seeing a therapist. It's kind of like this: you are completely capable of living a life, but therapy can help you lead the best possible life. Or so I think. It can take a while, though -- probably longer than your insurance company will want to pay for it. I hope you have a good experience, and I think it's cool that you're so open about it here (I can't bring myself to talk about it on my blog, even though it's been one of the most positive, transformative experiences of my life and quite often the highlight of my week).
Posted by Leslie | February 10, 2008 1:49 PM
Posted on February 10, 2008 13:49