Lived Experience Forum

[Aniela]

Hi @Stacks 

Opening up in therapy can be quite difficult sometimes. It's hard to be vulnerable with people we don't know. It's hard when we don't feel understood. I have learned when I don't feel listened to, understood or validated, the best thing to do is actually discuss my feeling and perceptions. People generally don't misunderstand or invalidate on purpose. I have found therapists to be grateful when I have opened up and been honest about my thoughts/emotions/perceptions/barriers. 

Maybe try to figure out what is getting in the way of opening up? Ask your self "what is the threat here?" Also, it is ok to only discuss things when you are ready. Therapists shouldn't push you before you are ready. In saying that, it's also not a good idea to use it to avoid feeling and dealing with emotions/events for a long time. It can take a few sessions with a therapist to feel comfortable and trust them. It might be an idea to tell your therapist you're having trouble opening up. They may help you explore why. This may allow you to figure out your barriers. Some therapists aren't the right fit for us too. If it is a patterns with all of them though, it is a good idea to address this head on. 

[LadyCaroline]

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