Mopsey, You've heard the old saying--"you have to roll w/the punches"? Well, that's what you have to do w/your h right now. He's like the little ball in the pinball machine, bouncing all over the place. I suspect that the counselor gave him some things to think about and he's got to digest those thoughts for now.
I don't think he's trying to manipulate you at all. If anything, he wants to be w/you and yet keep you and the family at arm's length while he's figuring himself out. He does realize he's a mess and he has voiced that he doesn't know exactly what is wrong w/him. This is the first step towards looking w/in.
How did the swim go this evening? Did you son do well? I'm sure that you are very proud of your children and you know what? They are very proud of you too! Keep thinking positive. Mopsey, only God knows what he wants to do w/your h for right now. Please try to leave the worry in his hands for a while.
Take care.
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.
