Hi CBThis is what I would do: At the beginning of the session I would state my intent. If she balks, say "my greatest stress right now is my work. I need to focus on that, please. If she balks, interrupt her and refocus the session again. If she does it again, say this: It will not be useful for me to discuss my daughter or anything other than work, today. (Then wait for a response.) If she continues tell her: I will not be returning. This is not useful to me. Please bill me for 20 minutes, or whatever the time is that you have used. If she is negative, tell her: I will be reporting you on ethics charges with the State Board.
You control the session. You are paying her. She works for you.
Good luck!! You can do it and you will. I will be returning to work tomorrow *after 3 and a half years not working. I have been very scared and anxious. I do not hate my work but sometimes people in my workplace are mean to me. I hate people to be mean to me.
I am also afraid just to be anxious--having demands put on me--after living without structure for so long. So, please wish me luck. You will be my role model because I know how long you have been struggling with this abusive boss and re-definition of your job duties. And you have prevailed.
I only have to work 6 months this time. That is the time limit I have set for myself. (I am an independent contractor, thus, 6 months is the shortest period I can promise.)
Why not do a countdown, CB. Every day you can check in and we can cheer you own. I will not say, like a marathon, because you are already in the home stretch. The last 100 yards where the crowd is going wild, they are throwing cold water on the runners, and you can taste the finish. We are here for you CB.
