My Experience with Therapy -- Part 1

In this episode, the host dives deep into his personal journey with professional therapy following the onset of severe Binge Eating Disorder (BED) during the COVID lockdowns. He takes listeners behind the scenes of his experience with a specialized eating disorder organization, detailing the assessment process, group therapy dynamics, one-on-one sessions, and nutritionist interactions. This is an honest account of what it feels like to be a patient—not a therapist—navigating treatment when you feel out of control.Key Topics Covered:Seeking Help During Lockdown: Why the host sought professional help when his BED spiraled out of control, and how he found a specialized organization rather than searching via Google.The Assessment Call: A raw look at the invasive phone assessment process during early COVID, including the shock of answering deep personal questions over the phone for the first time.Group Therapy Challenges: The experience of being the only man, the only person with BED, and the oldest member (46) in a group therapy session.Identifying Feelings: The struggle with the "Feelings Wheel" and the difficulty of articulating emotions when you have never been taught to identify them.Cognitive vs. Autopilot: Understanding the difference between intellectually knowing recovery tools (e.g., "pain is inevitable") and actually using them during a binge.One-on-One Therapy: A mixed bag of experiences with rotating therapists—one who diagnosed OCD and Depression, and another who was a poor fit ("oil and water").Nutritionist Sessions: The frustration of scheduled meal plans, photo evidence requirements, and feeling unheard regarding feelings of disgust and fullness.The "Trust" Issue: Why the host felt distanced from medical staff and how that impacted his willingness to continue treatment.⚠️ Important Listener Disclaimers:Not Medical Advice: The host is not a doctor, therapist, or health professional. All opinions are personal perceptions of his own experience.Trigger Warning: This episode discusses therapy experiences, eating disorder diagnoses (BED, OCD, Depression), and feelings of disgust regarding food. Please protect your mental health and turn off immediately if this compromises your well-being.No Critique: While the host shares frustrations with specific treatment methods, he does not intend to critique therapists or techniques objectively; these are his personal perceptions.Diagnoses Mentioned: The host mentions being diagnosed with OCD and Depression during therapy. These are personal disclosures only and should not be taken as medical advice for others.