I start grad school on the 12th for counseling psychology, but recently I've been struggling at my current job (case management) with keeping my work a job, if that makes sense. I can't give too much away about the people I work with, but I have consumers who are struggling with abusive relationships, anxiety, and depression and I think I identify too much with them.
I have been working with one person in particular a lot for her healthcare needs. She opens up to me about her suicide ideation/attempts and asks for counseling. I jump through hoops to find free counseling for her. The day finally comes and she refuses to go. I cried. I told myself I was just frustrated because I had worked so hard to find this therapist. But then I confided in a co-worker and to my surprise started SOBBING. I realized I am terrified! I am totally attached to this woman and I want so bad to rescue her, and I didn't even have any idea I felt this way.
I was so embarrassed that I got so upset over it. I couldn't concentrate the whole rest of the day. If I can't handle that, how could I handle being the counselor???
I guess I'm wondering if anyone has experience dealing with these types of situations, through work, friends, family, whatever.