As a therapist, I am inevitably asked this question at least once a week, "Am I the craziest person you've seen?" First off, no you are not, and secondly here's why:
People are Different
Plain and simple, no two people are alike. We each experience our own ups and downs, trials and tribulations, successes and triumphs. Different does not equate to crazy. Just because you're the only one in your friend group that might be questioning your sexual orientation does not mean others I've seen have not. Or if you have an interesting fetish that you are afraid to discuss with others, doesn't mean there aren't groups of people out there who enjoy the same thing. And chances are even if I'm not familiar with your particular issue down to a "t" doesn't mean I'm not familiar with what it might be that you're going through or want to address.
Even if you think you're all over the place, I'm still following
Another common question that I get from many people particularly at the end of a session is if I've been able to follow them in conversation. Usually the fear is that they were so all over the board topic wise, that I got lost somewhere in translation. As a well seasoned therapist, and any well seasoned therapist will let you know, it is our job to follow you in conversation no matter how convoluted or jumbled the story gets. Depending on your therapist's therapeutic approach, might also determine how they choose to guide you in session or whether a particular topic is focused on more. But trust me when I say your interwoven threads in conversation were totally heard and followed. If I'm lost somewhere I will simply let you know so we can back track.
Bottom Line, You're Human!
So if you are still feeling like a basket case, remember that your issues to a therapist are no different than sending in a car for maintenance. It is our job (as the mental mechanic) to hear your story and help you navigate a unique path that will get you back on track and back on the road. Like many others, you have or will experience grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, you name it! There is almost always a sigh of relief when I inform my clients that they are not alone in their symptoms, thoughts, or behaviors, and that their issues can be worked through. Although some issues can be more challenging than others to manage and might require specialty work, does not make you an abnormal alien! Like the philosophy of universality states, existence and prevalence are everywhere, and commonalities among all people and all things in the world have been and are being shared.
If you are concerned about issues you've been having with gender identity, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, trauma, or more, don't hesitate to schedule a free consultation with me today. You can do so by calling the number listed above or below.
Devin Pinkston is a local mental health counselor and Gender Therapist in Grand Junction Colorado.Call to schedule a free consultation today at 970-644-2392