Generalized Anxiety Disorder - Therapist advice.

A few years ago, my therapist who I had been seeing for ten years moved to another state. It was absolutely devastating for me. I went through a grief process after that loss because I had been through so much with her. She was the first therapist I went to see when I started to seek help for anxiety. I realize now how lucky I was because I know finding the right one can sometimes be a challenge. She saw me at my absolute lowest with my Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and helped me work through the shame I felt at coming to terms with my mental illness. I took a break from therapy for a few years after she left because I couldn't imagine seeing anyone else. That ended up being the wrong choice. I fell apart, isolated even more than I had been, and felt like I had taken a million steps backward. Last year, we reconnected and have been doing telecommunication sessions over the phone. Still, I know there is something missing because they are not face-to-face sessions. I've always felt like so much of therapy is looking in the eyes of the patient, because what we say doesn't always tell the whole story. I don't know what to do because it has helped me greatly in terms of coping, and she knows me better than almost anyone else. Should I look for a new therapist? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[maggie0813]

Hi Sunsetsky,

I am going throught something familiar. I had a breakdown on Tuesday and went in yesterday to see my Psychiatrist only to find out he is no longer there.... it was so devastating I had an anxiety attack. I am scheduled to see someone new on Monday, but I dont know what to feel or make of it. My Psych knew me best and knew when I was at a dangerous low. However, I think it would be a good idea to find someone new. If your new therapist doesnt work or fit your needs look for a different one. Thats what I did before I found my former Psych.

[annieb56]

What about Skype or Google Hangouts video - they're both free and will solve your looking-at-her-face dilemma. There is another issue that you're not addressing, which is part of the problem of your anxiety. Your inability or refusal to deal with the situation presented to you. Your therapist moved away -this wasn't a break-up - she moved on with her life and career and leaving your location was necessary. Instead of accepting this fact, you punished yourself by not seeking therapy with someone new (you admitted this was a mistake). You had all the information of how your former therapist was so valuable and was helping you. Write these qualities down and let a new therapist know what you need and want - this is also a valuable life lesson as well. Take control and speak up for yourself.

[Hidden in reply to annieb56]

I will look into the Skype or google video for sure. But you're right, I'd never thought of it that way before. That is a part of my anxiety. I can think of other instances where my anxiety made me not want to deal with certain situations too. I suppose that was a way of punishing myself.