Member-only story
“How are you doing today Michael?” asked Dr. Phillips.
Michael let out a long sigh and stared at the tiny hands circling the clock on the neighboring coffee table while sinking into the soft green cushions beneath him.
“Tired. I still can’t get no sleep at night doc. It’s driving me crazy.” His elbow positioned against the arm of the sofa with his hand pressed against the side of his head concentrating on the lamp. He loved the dim lighting that Dr. Phillips kept in her room. Bright lights have bothered him since that day.
“Is the medicine helping?” she asked.
“It helps for a little bit but as soon as my eyes close, man…I seen it happening like it did that night. I just need it out of my head. I want it out of my head already. When will it ever end?”
After an hour-long session, Dr. Phillips turned to Michael and said, “You call me if you need anything ok?”
He began seeing her a few months ago after he moved. After he finally admitted to himself that he needed help. Help that he avoided for years. He scheduled his next appointment with Monica, Dr. Phillips’s assistant. Monica always made sure to smile and that for him made the office a warm and welcoming environment. The uneasiness he felt prior to each appointment remained at the door whenever Monica greeted him.
