My psychotherapist says that I dismiss myself. Maybe I do, but when did it start?

I know that Tom dismisses me often. I’ve just told him how lonely and isolated it is being a mum; he gave me ‘the look’ and dismissed it completely. He does this a lot. He’s done this for so long that I almost believe it’s okay, and maybe that’s why I do it to myself. Did I do it when I was married to Greg? I doubt it.

To Tom, I might say, “I’m tired.” He will reply, “You always say that. You’re fine.”
“I don’t feel well” – “Of course you do, you’re fine”
“I’m too tired for choir” – “You’re fine, just go”
“I feel really down.” – “You’re fine, if anyone’s depressed, it’s me.”

Who else does this to me?

My Dad did whenever I was scared or in pain.