Steve I'm so glad you've posted a reply as your reply sounds much more positive than your question above. You know you have the capabilities of getting through this, you just need to reinforce it now with some self-belief. First sessions with counsellors are always emotive - you know I do the job myself and in counsellor-speak, when we are seeing a new client for the first time we always refer to it as 'verbal sick' on the first session. Not in a derogatory way, we simply mean that the first time they want to tell you it all and it all comes out in a burst like sick. Usually after the first session, the counsellor will lead you on to talk about specific issues which you have highlighted during the first session and you can pick over that until you feel you have something to work with. The counsellor is usually fairly quiet during the first session as they really are giving you the chance to 'tell your tale.' Stick with it my friend, keep on referring to your list of things to achieve, and keep upbeat as much as you can. Don't forget, you can always return to docs to ask to be referred for CBT which is usually on offer at your local hospital. Keep posting Steve so we can all keep chatting to you. Doll xx