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Going totherapyis no easy feat.
It takes courage to be willing to share your deepest feelings with amental health professional.
This article will explain if you should tell your therapist everything and why.
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Should I Tell My Therapist Everything?
In short, yes, you should tell your therapist everything.
Transparency in therapy can support you in meeting your clinical goals and, ultimately, feeling better.
A strong relationship with a client can often lead to great breakthroughs in the therapy room.
In turn, the therapist may not be providing the most effectivetreatmentbecause they are not receiving honest feedback.
However, thinking about the reasons that cause you to lie or not open up can be helpful.
What If I Do Feel Shamed or Judged?
Should they have a response that is anything other than professional and compassionate, consider finding a new therapist.
Let’s take a look at when a therapist might do this.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Feelingdistrustin the therapeutic relationship can stem from multiple sources.
Perhaps they had a reaction to a deeply intimate issue you expressed that felt harmful.
Maybe they come from adifferent cultural backgroundand you feel they cant understand your experience.
Or it could be thattrustis already challenging for you, and youre not ready to let your therapist in.
Other times, it’s possible that you and your therapist are simply not the right fit.
Remember that therapists are trained mental health professionals.
First, take a moment to pause and honor how important it is that you are prioritizing your needs.
Taking charge of your care and advocating for yourself to receive the best support possible is a huge step.
You may be surprised to find that there is a provider who you instantly feel comfortable with.
Then, it’s possible for you to move forward with them if you choose to do so.
While navigating yourhealingjourney, honesty with yourself and your therapist is key.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
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Norcross JC, Lambert MJ.Psychotherapy relationships that work III.Psychotherapy.
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American Psychological Association.Protecting Your Privacy: Understanding Confidentiality.
