Feeling unsettled or worried about your response when your therapist asks if you "like" coming to sessions is a valid concern, and there could be various reasons for these feelings. Let's explore some possible explanations:
Fear of judgment: You might worry that your therapist will judge you or form a negative opinion if you admit that you don't particularly enjoy the sessions. You may fear that expressing your true feelings could affect the therapeutic relationship or lead to repercussions.
Desire to please: It's common for individuals to want to please their therapist, especially when they perceive therapy as a supportive and helpful space. Expressing dissatisfaction with the sessions might feel like letting them down or being ungrateful for their efforts.
Fear of consequences: You might be concerned that if you say you don't like the sessions, your therapist could interpret it as resistance to therapy or lack of progress. You might worry that they would change their approach or terminate therapy prematurely.
Difficulty expressing emotions: Sharing personal feelings, especially negative ones, can be challenging for some people, even in a therapeutic setting. You may struggle to articulate your true emotions and find it easier to suppress or hide them.
Uncertainty about therapy: If you're unsure about the effectiveness of therapy or its impact on your life, you might feel conflicted about expressing your feelings regarding the sessions.
Past experiences: Previous encounters with authority figures or caregivers could influence your fear of expressing dissenting opinions or negative feelings. You may have learned to avoid potential consequences by being agreeable.
It's crucial to remember that your therapist is there to help and support you, not to judge or punish you for your feelings. Honest and open communication is a vital aspect of the therapeutic process. Sharing your true emotions, even if they are mixed or negative, can provide valuable insights for your therapist to understand your needs better and tailor the therapy to suit you.
If you feel uncomfortable discussing this directly with your therapist, you could try writing down your feelings before the next session. This can help clarify your thoughts and emotions and make it easier to express them during your appointment. Alternatively, you can discuss your concerns about discussing your feelings about therapy with your therapist itself. Their response can help you build trust and a deeper therapeutic alliance.