Trauma Grieving

Chapter 17

Johnson's POV_

I sat in my office, staring at the phone as I tried to decide what to do. Vee had been struggling for weeks, and I could see the toll it was taking on her and the kids. I knew she needed professional help, but every time I suggested it, she shut down.

I decided to take matters into my own hands. I looked up therapists in our area and found one who specialized in anxiety and depression. I made an appointment for Vee without telling her, hoping that she would agree to go once she saw how beneficial it could be.

As I waited for the appointment day, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. I was worried about Vee's health, but I was also hopeful that therapy could help her find the peace and happiness she deserved.

When the day of the appointment arrived, I gently encouraged Vee to go, trying not to push her too hard. To my surprise, she agreed.

As we sat in the waiting room, I took Vee's hand and gave it a squeeze. "You're doing great, honey," I said. "I'm proud of you for taking this step."

Vee smiled weakly, but I could see the fear in her eyes. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to support her every step of the way.

Mr. Gabriel's POV_

I sat in my office, observing the couple in front of me. Vee and Johnson had come seeking therapy to help Vee manage her anxiety and depression. As we began our session, I could see the weight of their struggles bearing down on them.

"So, Vee, can you tell me a little bit about what's been going on?" I asked, my voice gentle and non-judgmental.

Vee hesitated, looking at Johnson before speaking. "I just feel overwhelmed all the time," she said, her voice shaking. "I don't know how to control my emotions, and I'm afraid I'm going to lose my family."

I nodded, making a note on my pad. "It sounds like you're feeling a lot of pressure and stress. Can you tell me more about what's been going on that's making you feel this way?"

As Vee began to open up, I listened attentively, taking note of the underlying issues that seemed to be contributing to her struggles. I could see the pain and fear in her eyes, and I knew that we had a long road ahead of us.

But I was confident that with the right approach, Vee could learn to manage her emotions and find peace. And with Johnson's support, I knew they could work through this together.

I nodded at Johnson. "Johnson, would you mind stepping out for a bit? I'd like to speak with Vee alone for a while."

Johnson looked at Vee, who nodded slightly, before standing up. "Okay, I'll wait outside."

As the door closed behind Johnson, Vee let out a deep breath. I leaned forward, my expression gentle. "Vee, I want to talk to you about something. You mentioned feeling overwhelmed and afraid of losing your family. Can you tell me more about that?"

Vee's eyes welled up with tears. "It's just...I feel like I'm not good enough. Like I'm just pretending to be a good mom and wife. And Rachel being back...it's just bringing up a lot of old feelings."

I nodded, my expression understanding. "It sounds like you're carrying around a lot of guilt and shame. Can you tell me more about what you mean by 'not good enough'?"

Vee's words spilled out in a rush, and I listened attentively, offering words of validation and support. As the session progressed, I could see the weight of her emotions slowly lifting.