Therapy is all about letting out your deepest secrets, your darkest insecurities, and most in-depth vulnerabilities. The only way to fix your mind is to first understand what caused the issues in the first place. Honestly, many of us have this fear of trust when it comes to opening up to people. If you’ve been betrayed or let down, such feeling is unavoidable.
However, if you’re starting therapy for your own good, you need to realize that your counselor is going to lift you up from the ditch you’ve fallen into. If you’re looking for a therapist, BetterHelp can help you find your perfect therapist match. So, let’s take a look at how you can open up to your therapist, and create a healthy bond.
Start with the surface story
Your story is made up of different sizes and chunks of events and situations. Think of it as the Earth. It has its surface, which everyone knows, and then the less-seen parts, and the core, that seems to barely exist. Until you and your therapist are comfortable with each other, start from the surface story. It would help you get into a flow so you won’t suddenly let out very personal/intimate detail, and feel awkward about it.
Don’t be afraid of your therapist
Therapists are doctors, but they aren’t doctors who take physical tests. It’s all connected to your mind. Your therapist will not judge you, nor think of you any differently from the rest of their patients. So take a deep breath, and let your story be heard.
Be prepared
It’s a healthy habit to always be prepared prior to anything. Make sure to choose your sessions when your mind is actually calm (not during work/school). Ask yourself why you’re in therapy, what do you expect to achieve, and what will you get out of this session. Once your therapist concludes with the topics for your next session, make a note of it.
Think of your therapist as your closest Confidante
Your therapist is the only person who will listen to your darkest events and not judge you. It begins with your mind. If you’re generally an anxious person, you’d tend to stress over the thought of going to the therapist. Don’t worry, your parents nor partner will know the things you tell to your counselor. Think of them as your closest confidante.
Have your expectations clear
It’s great to listen to other people’s opinions, but don’t let them influence your expectations. Have them clear in your head. After all, you are paying for your sessions. But don’t be too ignorant to think otherwise if your therapist is trying a different method during your sessions. Therapists use different topics and methods which suit each patient. They’re there to guide you, so let them do what you pay them to do.
It’s not always easy to find a great therapist. But online platforms like Betterhelp are a great method to seek for the ideal therapist who will help you with professional guidance.