A Visit with Dr. Paul Weston

Hello, come in. Sorry to make you wait. Have a seat.

So, what's on your mind?

Why, thank you. I've been told my eyes are like a pool of sapphires.

I understand you feel as if you could dive into them and swim forever, but that's not why you're here today, is it? What's on your mind?

I see. And how does that make you feel?

Betrayed? I could certainly see how you'd feel that way. This sometimes happens in whirlwind romances. Did you have any indication this was coming?

Obvious in retrospect, maybe. Frequently, we're the last to suspect because we're too close to the situation. How have things been since you found out?

That must be very conflicting, identifying with those you mocked previously. But let's worry a little less about them and talk about you. Tell me what you're thinking right now.

I see. Like things will never get better. Having grown up in New York—

Irish accent? I'm sure there's a good explanation for that. Anyway, you must realize there's been a fundamental change in your relationship. It will take time to process that. Could be up to two months.

Oh, so you know when you'll see him again? You have an exact date?

July 3. You'll see him and all those old feelings will come rushing back. How do you think you'll react?

Why are you walking aimlessly around my office and picking my things up and then putting them down? Why do I let all my patients do that?

I think your reaction to his return will tell you a lot about how you really feel about him. About your relationship. And most importantly, whether there's enough trust to carry on. What do you think?

He's had some other bad behavior in the past? Things you had forgotten?

Is it possible you've been in denial as a way to make this relationship work?

Certainly he has a lot of explaining to do. There's a lot going on. It's a complex situation.

We have a lot of work to do together. We should schedule appointments for twice a week.

I know, but yours isn't the only relationship here. There are many others, practically a team of people, who need your support right now.

What do you think I mean by that?

I'm sorry, our time is up. I know it only seemed like 30 minutes, but I'll be charging you for the full hour. Take care.