If you find yourself in a situation where your therapist says they believe your traumas but keeps making comments that suggest otherwise, it's essential to address this concern directly and openly with your therapist. Effective therapy relies on trust and a strong therapeutic relationship, and it's crucial to ensure that you feel safe and understood during your sessions.
Here are some steps you can take to handle this situation:
Express your feelings: Start by expressing your feelings and concerns to your therapist. Be honest and open about how their comments have made you feel and why you find them contradictory to their claim of believing your traumas. Communication is essential in therapy, and a good therapist will be receptive to your feedback.
Ask for clarification: Give your therapist the opportunity to explain their comments or behavior. There might be miscommunication or misunderstanding that can be resolved through open dialogue. Your therapist may not be aware of how their comments are affecting you, and discussing it can lead to greater understanding and improvement in the therapeutic relationship.
Seek validation and empathy: When discussing your traumas, it's crucial to feel validated and understood by your therapist. If you feel your therapist is not providing the support and empathy you need, express that and ask for more validation and understanding during your sessions.
Discuss your goals: Revisit your therapy goals with your therapist and make sure they align with your needs and expectations. If there are discrepancies between what you want to achieve in therapy and what your therapist is offering, it's essential to address them to ensure you are both on the same page.
Consider a second opinion: If you've tried discussing your concerns with your therapist, but you still don't feel heard or understood, you may consider seeking a second opinion from another therapist. Different therapists have varying approaches and personalities, and finding the right fit is essential for productive therapy.
Advocate for yourself: Remember that you have the right to speak up for yourself in therapy. Your therapist is there to support you, and you should feel comfortable advocating for your needs and expressing any concerns you may have.
Monitor your feelings and progress: Pay attention to how you feel during and after therapy sessions. If you notice that the therapeutic relationship isn't improving, or you continue to feel unheard or invalidated, it may be time to consider finding a new therapist.
Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist should be a supportive ally in your healing journey. It's essential to address any issues that arise in therapy to ensure you are getting the help you need to cope with your traumas effectively.