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A Tribute to my therapist

by Valerie Martin

In 1994 I saw a therapist, on a bi-weekly basis, who changed the way I feel about living and coping with a mental illness. First, I was diagnosed with clinical depression, followed by one episode of manic depression and finally schizoaffective disorder. The diagnoses changed but never the support I received from her.

I struggled with gnawing loneliness, despair at witnessing my high school friend get married and buy a town house while I remained stagnant like a muddy pond, and faced an endless array of unrewarding part-time jobs working for minimum wage amidst periods of aching recovery. Sometimes the only shining flames I looked forward to were the love my parents gave to me, and the support I received from her.

Never before have I met a woman with her perseverance. She wouldn't give up on me at times when I gave up on myself. We would sit facing one another in her office and share my life's experiences. She shared her wisdom and laughter while always treating me with a caring, responsible attitude. She filled the goblet of my loneliness and, over time, encouraged me to dream and be more independent.

I admired her so much that I wanted to, one day, be like her. I wanted to give others the gift of hope as she had given me. Not only was she my therapist, but also my mentor. Just knowing she was there inspired me to seek more fulfilling relationships, attend school so I could improve the quality of my life, be more independent, and nurture my positive qualities while gradually trying to change my self defeating lack of confidence.

She is one of the reasons why I dream of becoming a nurse. I dream of one day being able to give back to the community what she has given to me. I'll never forget the last time I saw her before she retired. I gazed into her lovely face and wished her well, saying I would never find another therapist with her professionalism, kindness and wisdom. She touched the burning embers of my spirit and made all the difference.

Valerie Martin is a member of VRMHNS