Counselling in the UK - Help Please

[Roberta-Jane]

I have decided to go for counselling after finally accepting that I will be a life-long CD.

I am a little scared to approach my GP but I will summon up courage to do this. What I would like to know is how do I determine that the councillor they recommend is right for me?

What questions do I need to ask my GP?

Any advice would be welcome

PS I am 49

[Melissa A.]

Hi Roberta,

I don't mean to sound insensitive, but if you have accepted who you are, why do you need counseling?

I don't mean to downplay the value of having a proffessional to talk to; it does work wonders under the right circumstances, and if you need help in dealing with how you now feel, I would say go for it. The only way, in my experience, that you will know you have found the right therapist is by talking to him or her. Some are good at gender issues, some aren't. Your doctor or a friend may have a good referral, or you might search online.

I struggled with this issue before I came out and accepted who I am. I saw a couple of therpists for that and other issues, but what really changed my life is what you are going through now. Of course, my acceptance of myself was also filled with joy and happiness. I cannot tell if that is where you are....

For me, the act of deciding to be who I am changed my life profoundly, for the good. And life has gotten better, in every area, since.Denial and suppression are not good for the soul, and affect everything you do.

You are on the right track, but are you happy about it, or still confused? Only you can make that decision. Hope my above advice about finding the right therapist helps a little. I don't know how things work in the U.K., but I would say shop around until you are comfortable with someone. and get aqdvice, if possible.

I wish you good luck, and will be thinking about you.

Hugs,

Melissa :)

[Roberta-Jane]

Thanks for your reply Melissa.

I have been advised on other forums that it may help me to have counselling to address issues regarding what level of cding I want. I am at last truly happy with accepting myself and have had more internal peace than for ages.

However, My wife knew about me at the beginning of our marriage but I seem to have slipped back into the closet for various reasons, mainly purging, and have two little girls. These are issues that I need to talk to someone about.

I will keep you posted. Thanks again

Roberta-Jane