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[–]storyendingnever 15 insightful - 1 fun15 insightful - 0 fun16 insightful - 1 fun -  (2 children)

Thanks for posting. This is difficult stuff, and it can be hard to talk about even in supportive online groups when you're feeling frustrated (among other complicated and heavy emotions).

I'm not a therapist, but I have a few degrees in psych, so I know the crazy world of psychologists and social workers all too well. It is really hard to find one that works for you on all the levels you need (kind of like dating, except that you are paying the latter for their time, and the relationship is, by definition, a power imbalance). I'd first suggest to ditch the current therapist. As soon as these types start talking about non-binary and gender dysphoria issues, you know they are full of shit, aren't that intelligent themselves, and absolutely should have their credentials stripped from them ASAP. Seriously abusive, anti-science nonsense. Sorry, I get angry just thinking about this and the damage these people do.

As for finding a new one, have you thought about finding one online through a professional organization where you can browse their specialties? Sometimes online listings are searchable and therapists may have profiles you can read about (listing therapy types, population specialties, etc). I am not sure where you're located and whether you have a really large pool to choose from, but sometimes, it can be hard to find niche therapists in your local area.

I really wish you luck in finding what you need. No one should live with undeserved shame, and having to justify yourself to someone who doesn't really have your best interests at heart, while you're paying them at the same time, seems like cruel and unusual punishment.

[–][deleted]  (1 child)

[deleted]

    [–]storyendingnever 7 insightful - 1 fun7 insightful - 0 fun8 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

    the one upside to being raised in (basically) a cult is that I am now hyper aware of the characteristics of toxic ideologies

    I hear you on this. I had a different, but equally messed up upbringing, and that kind of experience really gives you a strange set of skills - nothing that is useful on a resume, mind you, but still. That people grow up in situations where they end up with this kind of 'expertise' in life at all really bites...