How would you feel if your therapist said this?

I was discussing dating and my intimidation with men. How I want to date but don't feel enough.. due to my issues. I liked she Said I don't need to heal all my Issues or be Perfect to date. That men will have issues too. But then She said "You have a lot of anxiety. You may always have it. It is who you are.. "
On one hand i get she meant to kind oF not be ashamed of my disorder. But on the Other hand it is not who I AM. It is a result of trauma and not truly me. I just let it go but not sure how to Feel...how might you feel?

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OlderSometimesWiser · F

It would probably sting a little. I’d say she used a poor choice of words when she said, “it is who you are.” I’d have preferred her to have said, “it may always be a part of you.” And then gone on to discuss how your anxiety doesn’t have to be a deterrent to dating and ways to effectively manage it.

I’d talk to her about this at your next session.

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@OlderSometimesWiser and even "you may always have it" felt defeating. She definitely was on the side of not letting anxiety be any reason I shouldn't date..and I was grateful . (Just like when you also said its ok to date even if I have issues). But the line o f "its who you are " made me think..no it is not truly.

OlderSometimesWiser · F

@Coralmist Gotcha, but I’d still say it’s progress that you recognize anxiety is not who you are. You’re so much more than that lady, I’ve seen it for myself right here at SW. 🙂

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@OlderSometimesWiser I remember a quote by Eckhart Tolle.."Anything you can say ABOUT you, iS not you." I really liked that. Thanks so much for your words 💜