I'm really sorry to hear about the difficult experience you had with your therapist. The sudden termination of a therapeutic relationship can indeed be distressing, especially when you've been working together for a considerable amount of time. Healing from such an experience can be challenging, but it's possible. Here are some suggestions to help you move forward:
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Allow yourself to feel and process the emotions that arise from this experience. It's normal to feel hurt, angry, or abandoned. Recognize that your feelings are valid and give yourself permission to grieve the loss of this therapeutic relationship.
Seek Support: Consider finding a new therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma and PTSD. Talking with a professional can provide you with a safe space to explore your feelings and work through the impact of the past therapeutic experience.
Set New Boundaries: Reflect on the boundaries that were crossed or neglected in your previous therapeutic relationship. Learn from this experience and establish clear boundaries in future relationships, ensuring that you feel respected and supported.
Educate Yourself about PTSD: Understanding PTSD and its impact on your life can be empowering. Knowledge can help you develop coping strategies and insights into your experiences, making it easier to work through the trauma.
Engage in Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that can help alleviate stress and promote healing. This could include mindfulness practices, hobbies you enjoy, exercise, spending time with supportive friends or family, or seeking relaxation techniques.
Consider Support Groups: Joining a support group for individuals with PTSD or similar experiences can offer a sense of community and understanding. Connecting with others who have been through similar situations can be comforting and provide valuable insights.
Process the Past: If you feel ready and comfortable, consider writing in a journal or engaging in therapeutic exercises that allow you to process your feelings and experiences related to the abrupt ending of your previous therapy.
Be Patient with Yourself: Healing from trauma takes time, and it's essential to be patient with yourself throughout the process. Allow yourself to heal at your own pace and avoid putting pressure on yourself to move forward too quickly.
Remember that healing from traumatic experiences is a journey, and it's okay to seek professional help and support along the way. A new therapist can work with you to address the impact of your past experience and support you on your healing path. Take the time you need, and know that with the right support and self-compassion, healing is possible.