Well, DH and I have still been having problems so we both agreed it was time to see a marriage counselor. I asked my tdoc if she could recommend one. She gave me the names of two and I asked if either of them had drug/alcohol counseling backgrounds, but neither of them did. So, I asked if she knew of anyone who did marriage counseling and had drug/alcohol experience. She said there was a man in her office that fit that criteria and she was pleased that I requested someone with that experience, since that is a big issue with me right now.
We had our first session on Wed. It was basically an introductory session where he introduced himself and then asked why we were there. I expressed how I am the "problem" and stated all of my "issues" as to why I am the problem (drug/alcohol abuse/addiction, bipolar, etc.). DH chimed in with a few additions. Well, the counselor latched on to the addiction piece and pretty much put me on the hot seat for about 30 minutes. He was quizzing me on AA, the steps, slogans, and seeing just how well I knew the program in general. He wanted to see if I was serious about the program and if I was "in" AA and really "working" a program or just attending meetings just for the sake of saying I was doing something for my addiction. Well, it was determined that I was gaining a lot of useful information from being at the meetings and learning and internalizing the program. DH was just sitting there listening to the counselor grill me BUT, afterwards, he told me he never realized how important meetings were to me and how helpful they really are to me!! He said he didn't realize how much I struggle with addiction (even though I've told him) and that he wants me to get whatever help I need to overcome this issue. The lightbulb went on in his head! He even asked me if I wanted to go through an intensive outpatient program at our local treatment facility (which he never supported before). So, I called to get information on it and I will hear back from them tomorrow or Monday to see what my insurance will cover then I'll make the appointment for the initial interview (to find out what program I qualify for: their intensive outpatient program or their relapse program). As much as I hated being on the hot seat, it was worth it!! DH is even going to skip going to a meeting on Tues. night so I can go to an AA meeting because he said that is more important! What a change!
Thanks for letting me share.
Peg
