How do I survive as the “client” in counseling process class?
I’m in a counseling masters program and I’m someone who’s been dealing with moderate to severe depression following a bunch of personal struggles (parents’ death and dementia, my disability, job loss, etc.).
In Counseling Process class we are assigned to role play a counselor for 3 classmates for a 5 session series. The “client” is supposed to use a real issue from their life as the subject for the sessions. It is supposed to be something beyond annoyance but below trauma. I can’t seem to find a problem to use as the “client” that doesn’t inevitably tie back into my deep grief and pain. I keep breaking down on my classmates and I don’t know what to do. It feels worse because the sessions are recorded so I’m also disclosing to the professor (who is also the head of our program). I don’t seem to have a problem keeping the emotional lid on when I’m the “counselor” but I can’t seem to authentically discuss any part of my life without falling apart.
I’m trying really hard not to quit school or take a big break. I’m in my late thirties and pursuing this as a career change. But I was maxed out with full time work plus full time school, and the stress of how to be an “appropriate client” is pushing it over the top. I don’t know what to do (I’m getting therapy and meds).
Thank you in advance. Any constructive suggestions are very welcome (but please don’t just say leave school, I’m fully aware of that option).