Algamus Gambling Recovery Center

This was my first session with Transitions Counseling and Consulting so it was informal. My counselor was very professional and easy to talk to, which surprised me since it was our first meeting. I believe I’ll be able to easily open up and talk to her.

My initial consultation with Dr. Caleb Reid was not only unproductive—it was deeply triggering. As someone seeking mental health support, I came into the session ready to engage genuinely and openly. However, when I began answering basic questions, Dr Reid abruptly stopped me to say he didn’t think I was being “professional.” I was stunned. I asked what exactly he meant, and he replied: my tone. Let me be clear—I was calm, respectful, and simply responding to his questions in a way that I genuinely felt was authentic and truthful. If my tone reflected any emotional weight, it's because the questions were triggering, and I was doing my best to be honest—something I thought was not only allowed but appropriate in a mental health setting. Not one of my responses had anything to do with Dr. Reid personally. Instead, his response showed a disturbing lack of empathy and an inability to hold space without personalizing the interaction. When I pointed out that I wasn’t being paid to be professional and was instead a client looking for help, I was met with what felt like deflection- He told me since it was the initial consultation, he wasnt getting paid yet either. The interaction left me feeling invalidated and more distressed than before the session. No one is perfect, Mental health professionals are no exception, maybe he was having a bad day? I wish there were a way for mental health practicioners to have the ability to help patients navigate their emotions and most definitely not shame them for how they show up in moments of vulnerability. For whatever reason, Dr. Reid projected his discomfort onto me. Maybe this works for some patients. I would strongly caution others seeking compassionate mental health support to look elsewhere.