dogless at the dog park
More than a month ago, I had my initial consultation with my first ever therapist. I was asked about what I was looking to gain from therapy, my goals, my needs, and some of my history. I was very anxious before, during, and after this call but I was definitely a little bit less so as the call progressed.
My new therapist is a very nice lady with a calming voice. She is also good at using metaphors and imagery that help me understand her point. For example, she explained that starting therapy is like weeding an overgrown yard. It’s hard work but it helps to remove what’s not needed first in order to grow a beautiful garden.
Despite this call going pretty well for me, it was still very emotionally exhausting. I decided to spend some time at the beach after to regulate myself. Unfortunately, my regular spot was already taken when I got there. I ended up finding a nice spot inside the dog park. It was giant, mostly empty, and was still along the shore.
I felt anxious sitting at the dog park without a dog but I’ve had a lot of practice fighting against my anxiety lately. This latest predicament was nothing compared to finally opening up about my mental health to a therapist. And so, I spent that afternoon cross stitching while listening to rock music at the beach dog park.
Later that day, my girlfriend joined me when she finally got out of work. We got dinner from our new regular spot at the beach: the same Greek restaurant from last time. We chatted about her terrible day, my terrible day, and the relatively terrific time we were having together at this beach picnic dinner date.
some dogs playing
making a little bit of progress now
calm waters
i wonder what this pillar used to be for
a painting at the greek restaurant
-- M. --