I just need to vent with people who get it. Had a therapy session today, and I opened up about how hard this time of year is for me. There’s all this celebrating, but for me, it just feels like a season full of reminders about animal suffering.
I was trying to explain my feelings, but the therapist kept bringing up meat… and laughing. You know that awkward kind of laugh? Like, “Oh, I shouldn’t have said that around you, haha, hope you don’t stop coming.” It felt like being mocked for something I care deeply about.
Thinking about the suffering behind all of it, knowing most people don’t care—it just got to me. Usually, I can hold it together, but today I wanted to cry.
I’m thankful for this forum and for people here who understand. I’m sorry I can’t do more to help those who are suffering. Thanks for listening.
That’s so unprofessional. I’m sorry you went through that. Therapy should be a safe space where you can be open. If you can, maybe start looking for someone else who’ll take you seriously.
I’ve decided to skip family Thanksgiving this year. Even though they make vegan dishes for me, it’s hard sitting there while everyone else is eating an animal. It’s just too much. You’re not alone in feeling this way—it can be really isolating, but you’re not the only one.
As a therapist myself, I think what she did was completely wrong. Whether or not she agrees with your views, she should respect them. You’d probably feel better with someone who truly understands you or at least respects where you’re coming from.
People need therapists who respect their values. Religious folks shouldn’t go to someone who mocks their faith, and vegans shouldn’t have to deal with therapists who can’t respect veganism. You deserve better.
I’m so sorry you had to go through that. It’s incredibly unkind and unprofessional. Even if someone doesn’t fully get veganism, they should at least try to be understanding. She had no right to make fun of it.
Nope, that’s just not okay. A therapist wouldn’t joke about other deeply held beliefs or values, so why this? It’s not professional, and it shows she’s not taking you seriously. I’m so sorry you dealt with that. I hope you find someone who’s a much better fit. Take care.
That’s really terrible! You shouldn’t have to deal with that. Maybe look for a vegan therapist? There’s actually a list online: Vegan Therapists - Kat Love LLC
Sawyer said:
That’s really terrible! You shouldn’t have to deal with that. Maybe look for a vegan therapist? There’s actually a list online: Vegan Therapists - Kat Love LLC
This is such a great resource! Thank you for sharing it. I can’t believe there are therapists like this who are so insensitive, but it’s nice to know there are ones out there who get it and care.
That’s just weird. How do you ‘accidentally’ bring up meat multiple times in a session? Feels like they were purposely trying to get a reaction out of you.