Posted by Chris A. on June 26, 2001, at 23:09:20
In reply to Should my therapist see my husband?, posted by Waterlily on June 25, 2001, at 21:12:27
My current therapist and pDoc welcome and encourage my husband to come to my appointments. Difficulties and mental illness don't occur in a vacuum and I think it is important for family members to be involved and know what is going on.
Once I had a psychiatrist who got angry when I brought my husband along. This is also one who grossly misdiagnosed me, so obviously he wasn't very good. I don't think a therapist has to officially do couples counseling for a spouse to come along. My current therapist is an MSW, so he is open to anyone accompanying me that can be of help or needs to know what is going on. So far I haven't taken my teenage children. They need to know what is going on, so it might be a good idea to take them sometime. He is excellent so would most likely be of help. I've been at a loss as to what to tell them about my bipolar illness, even though they have had to grow up with my moods and erractic behavior.
Since your husband is willing to be involved (which many are not) you might point out to your therapist some of the potential benfits, such as helping to educate him concerning your difficulties and helping him to help you. It also might answer oncerns he has. Any therapist should be able to do that, or they are not deserving of their degree.
Blessings,
Chris A.
poster:Chris A.
thread:6786
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20010622/msgs/6839.html