Psych

 List a few phobias you have. When and how did you discover you had these fears?

"I'm glad you agreed to show up in person," Dr. Lett began, as she sat in her desk chair. "You explained on the phone that you would like to discuss your phobia."

"Mmm," was all I could manage, as my already painful grip on the armrests tightened.

"Rest assured, Mr. Gladston, that a fear of psychiatrists is perfectly natural."

"Mm-hmm," I let out, feeling my shirt already drenched with sweat.

"Is this your way of trying to ease into treatment?"

"Yes," barely made it out of my constricted throat.

"I see."

She got up from her chair and stepped in front of the wall displaying her framed diplomas.

"That does explain why you called a marine biologist like me about this," she stoically said. "I admit, this is not my area of expertise, but I can try to assist you however I can."

I let out my held breath, and felt relief in reminding myself that Dr. Lett was not a psychiatrist. I just need to ease my way into it. One step at a time.

(written 2021 February 3)