Step two has begun - I've got a therapist!

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

My fiance has been trying to get this to happen for 3 years, way before she knew the drinking was as bad as it is. I'm going to see someone who comes highly recommended by her family and her therapist - in short she'll be psyched when I tell her about it tonight!

Anyway - the ball is starting to roll. I feel much better today - still foggy, anxious and sad but yesterday really gave me alot of hope.

Thanks DU!!!

:grouphug:

[King Of Paperboys]

1. Best wishes, Chavez

Focus. Don't expect miracles overnight. But best wishes to you.

[Lisa0825]

2. That's good news!

Just remember... therapy doesn't help unless you are prepared to be TRULY honest. Let it all out.

:grouphug:

[LynzM]

3. That's a great next step!

Have you seen the movie "What about Bob?" Baby steps to the elevator... it's all about doing one little (or big!) thing at a time, and I commend you for taking this step! I hope that this therapist is really someone you can connect with and can help you find ways to deal with everything, and keep moving forward and making the changes you want in your life! :hug:

[2Design]

4. good one day at a time....one hour....one minute....at a time...

this too shall pass

[Rowdyboy]

5. Best of luck, man

from one who's been there

[Rainbowreflect]

6. Good for you!

:hug:

[supernova]

7. That's good to hear.

:grouphug:

As long as you feel comfortable with him/her and can develop a good exploratory relationship.

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

13. I'm not afraid to open up

I'm gonna dig deep, for real

[La Lioness Priyanka]

8. best of luck

[qwertyMike]

9. Great

You are doing something, taking steps.
That's how it works. That's why AA works for some folks too. The act of taking the effort to do *something* keeps you sober. I don't care what it is so long as it's related to a commitment to sobriety.

Tip from one who knows: When you stop doing that something, ask yourself WHY?
Usually means you want to drink. Redouble your efforts. Sounds like a chore, but it soon becomes second nature.

Now, getting up for work every day, THAT's a real chore. :)

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

11. It sure is - but its much easier not hung over!

Thanks!

[Commie Pinko Dirtbag]

10. Remember this: it's a chemical condition. It's like diabetes. NO GUILT.

Alcohol triggers in you something it doesn't in the majority of people, just like sugar with diabetic people. It's a shame you can't enjoy an innocent beer like most people, but it's just dumb luck that you have this, not punishment for sinful behavior or anything. You just have to make an extra effort at staying healthy. The therapist, of course, is a part of this.

At least you can enjoy 8-ball ice creams megascoops with hot fudge with impunity! :hi:

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

12. And coffee, and espresso, and food food food!

No no they can't take that away from me :)

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

14. ***Whew! it's hard to thank everybody for their wishes!!!!*************

I feel blessed - thanks again. I feel very optimistic!

:grouphug:

[Commie Pinko Dirtbag]

18. And don't forget

If you slip up, SKITTLES WILL KICK YOUR ASS! :spank:

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

19. Blue-Jay too

There's a lot of folks ready to keep me in line - thank God!!! :)

[eyesroll]

15. A good step!

Just remember -- if this therapist doesn't work work for you, find a different one. It's not a slight against the therapist or the people who recommended him/her, nor is it a failing on your part -- sometimes, it's just not the right match.

(I have experience in the "wrong match" department.)

Good luck, again!

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

17. Good point

I do have some therapy experience - but this is my first with a licensed drug/alcohol counselor. I'm going to give it a try.

[proud patriot]

16. Great to hear

:loveya:

[PopSixSquish]

20. Good Deal

Keep moving forward CST. I was blessed to find a wonderful therapist when I needed one. I'm sure this person will help you.

:hi:

[Westegg]

21. Good for you, mate...

Let me add that it'll help if your therapist has some grounding in alcohol use/abuse. If this therapist is not responsive to what you feel you need, find another one. Find the one who you think will help you the most.

Best wishes...