LauraSFO1

I'm a pretty strong person, and usually have no problem telling people "no" but it seems to be different where my psychologist is involved. I've seen him twice now, and he keeps strongly encouraging me to call some woman who was a past patient of his. I think his thinking is this will help me have someone to "reach out" to who understands what I'm going through. I appreciate this, but I just don't feel comfortable calling a total stranger. I have two friends who no longer drink who I've already reached out to, and my husband is a tremendous support. If I felt like I was in a place where I would drink, I doubt I'd call this person I don't know. I have another session with him tomorrow and am just going to tell him thanks so much, but no thanks. I don't want to seem ungrateful, but it's just not something I feel at ease with.

Rowan

It's too bad he is pressuring you, Laura, and I think you are right to just say no. If you change your mind in the future, you can always call then.
Just because this guy is a shrink doesn't mean he's right. JMO

Tazman53

Laura I have a strong feeling I know why he wants you to call her, she is probably in AA. Have you told him about your 2 friends who have quit?

Most therapist/psychologist are well aware that they have very little luck when it comes to alcoholism or drug addiction, unless they are recovering them selfs they just do not get it. This is why many of them put patients onto AA or NA.

Therapist/psychologist are excellent in other matters, but when it comes to alcoholism or addicition if they are honest they turn it over to those who have recovered.

Rella927

Laura my Therapist actually is a recovering Alcoholic-and I'm just a little codie over here!

I would suggest to possible tell your Therapist that you appreciate the offer and take the number and ask him to leave it at that. Or also if you feel that you would like to speak to her , ask him if he could have her call you. Maybe there would not be as much pressure there? Up to you.....

PaperDolls

Good idea about having the woman call her Rella.......I think personally, I'd feel more comfortable with that too. And Taz is probably right that this psychologist isn't an expert on addictions, so of course nothing wrong with pointing you to AA or NA at all.

There is such a thing though. Addiction specialists. May be if this dr. doesn't work out you could find an addiction specialist.

I think this says it all.

If the psychologist doesn't understand that, then I'm not sure what I would do. You could also mention to him that you visit SR......a bunch of addicts that understand you helps a lot!

LauraSFO1

Thanks all. My therapist is also a recovered alcoholic- he's been sober 20 years through Rational Recovery. I am going to tell him thanks, and I'll hang onto her number, but right now I don't think it's what i really need. I've also never been "desperate" for a drink. That's not how I abused alcohol. For me it was more for fun, relaxation, to feel sexy, but once I had one I couldn't stop. So I don't ever see myself needing to call someone because I'm seconds away from sucumbing to a desperate situation. You know?

gypsytears

Some good advice from Rowan, Taz & Rella, Laura.

I don't have experience with seeing therapist so I can only lend my support to you .