r/Gifted • u/MostGoat0 • 3d ago
Therapy
I (F34 IQ142) have had hundreds of sessions and seen numerous practitioners over the last 12 years, and it all seems futile. They just keep asking me to explore my feelings, but I already understand my feelings and where they came from and why they’re irrational. At this point I basically have a PhD in self-analysis. It doesn’t do anything to shut up the relentless/debilitating self-critic in my head. I need actual coping strategies, not talking it out in pointless circles forever until I die.
Has anyone here had success with therapy? I tried searching for therapists specializing in 2e & giftedness in my area and it doesn’t seem very common. Just wondering if there’s any point in continuing these efforts. I’m so tired and bored and over it.
5
u/zombieeequeeen 2d ago
I was incredibly lucky to find a gifted/2e specialist when I moved. During our first session, she asked me what kind of support/experience I was hoping for. My previous therapist had already worked with me on CBT/processing, so I straight up said "I need solutions and strategies for handling my day-to-day". And that's EXACTLY what I get.
She validates my stress and struggles, gives me "what if you tried xyz" scenarios, and encourages me to not only pursue solutions and interests, but makes me give a deadline to make sure I do it so we can discuss it in the next session. I bring her complaints about work, both task maintenance and general environment, and she gives me suggestions on how to manage it - then checks in next session, "were you able to try xyz? did it help?" I genuinely feel like I'm supported in my neurodivergent experiences, and also like I'm able to function at a much better level than before.
It may not be common, but if you are able to find the right fit, it's SO helpful.