Feeling angry or experiencing strong emotions in therapy is not uncommon, especially when dealing with transference. Transference refers to feelings and emotions that you unconsciously transfer onto your therapist, often based on past relationships and experiences. It can be positive or negative, and in your case, it seems to involve a mix of both.
Feeling attached to your therapist and wanting to share every part of your life with them can be a sign of a strong therapeutic bond. However, therapy is a professional relationship, and the boundaries must be maintained to ensure the therapeutic process remains effective and focused on your needs.
Here are some steps you can consider:
Talk about it in therapy: It's essential to share your feelings of anger and attachment with your therapist during your sessions. Discussing transference and the emotions it brings up can be a valuable part of the therapeutic process. Your therapist is trained to handle these discussions and can help you explore these emotions in a supportive and non-judgmental way.
Explore the reasons behind your emotions: Understanding the underlying reasons for your anger and attachment can be insightful. It might be connected to past experiences or unmet emotional needs. By exploring these feelings, you can gain self-awareness and work towards resolving them.
Reflect on your therapeutic goals: Consider why you started therapy in the first place and what you hope to achieve. If you have made progress and are benefiting from therapy, it might be worth continuing despite the challenging emotions.
Consider discussing termination: If you feel that you've reached a point where you're ready to move on from therapy, have an open conversation with your therapist about it. The decision to terminate therapy should ideally be a mutual one, made collaboratively between you and your therapist.
Seek a second opinion: If you're unsure about your feelings and whether to continue therapy, you can seek a second opinion from another mental health professional. They can provide a fresh perspective on your situation.
Remember that experiencing intense emotions and transference is a natural part of the therapeutic process. It can be an opportunity for growth and healing when addressed openly in therapy. However, ultimately, the decision to continue or terminate therapy is a personal one, and it's crucial to prioritize your well-being and what feels right for you. If you're uncertain about what to do, discussing your feelings with your therapist can help you make an informed decision.