How to Open Up in Therapy
Find a Doctor
If the idea of sharing your most personal thoughts with a stranger makes you want to run for the hills, you may have put off going to therapy. However, that can make you miss out on the opportunity to get better and live a happier life. While talking to a therapist for counseling in Palatine, IL may be a little scary at first, it does get better with time.
Find a Therapist You Feel Comfortable With
The more comfortable you feel with your therapist, the easier it will be for you to share your thoughts. Pay attention to how the therapist speaks to you during your sessions. Does your therapist seem genuinely interested in what you have to say or does he or she seem bored? Do you feel like your therapist understands what you are saying or do you feel like he or she is judging you? If you don’t feel completely comfortable with a therapist, don’t hesitate to find a new one.
Write Your Therapist a Letter
If you are getting ready to see a therapist for the first time, it may be helpful to write him or her a letter that include details about why you’re seeking therapy. This will help your therapist understand a little more about you before you even come in for your first session.
Start Small
If you don’t feel comfortable talking about very vulnerable subjects from the get go, start talking about smaller problems. It will get you used to talking about yourself and help you feel more comfortable discussing bigger issues. Your therapist will guide the conversation and help you open up gradually.
Write Down What You’d Like to Talk About
Before each therapy session, write down some of the points you would like to talk about. This way, you won’t forget about what you want to talk about and avoid stumbling on your words. If you have any questions for your therapist, be sure to write those down as well.
Recognize That Your Therapist Is On Your Side
Sometimes people have trouble opening up in therapy because they feel like they’re being judged. It’s important to remember that your therapist isn’t there to judge you. He or she wants to help you sort through your issues so that you can live a happier life.
Give Yourself Time to Prepare
If possible, don’t schedule your therapy sessions immediately after work or school. You should give yourself a little bit of time to mentally prepare for the sessions. If you’re rushing to get to your therapy session after work or school, you may feel stressed and will be less likely to open up. Before each session, sit in a quiet room, take some deep breaths and remind yourself why you are attending therapy.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into counseling and how to be open with your therapist.
