Experiencing increased anger or other intense emotions when starting therapy is not uncommon and can be a normal part of the therapeutic process. There are several reasons why you might be feeling more angry during this time:
Emotional awareness: Therapy can help you become more aware of your emotions, including those that you may have been suppressing or avoiding. As you delve deeper into your thoughts and feelings, you might start to recognize and confront emotions like anger that were previously unexplored.
Uncovering underlying issues: Therapy can bring to the surface underlying issues and unresolved conflicts that you may not have been fully aware of before. These deeper emotions can lead to feelings of anger as you process and work through them.
Vulnerability and trust: In therapy, you may be discussing sensitive topics and sharing personal experiences. This level of vulnerability can make you feel exposed and may trigger anger as a way to protect yourself from feeling too exposed or vulnerable.
Change and resistance: Therapy often involves challenging current beliefs and behaviors to promote personal growth and change. Sometimes, resistance to change can lead to feelings of anger as a defense mechanism against the discomfort of leaving familiar patterns.
Catharsis: Therapy provides a safe space for emotional release. Expressing anger can be a way of releasing pent-up emotions and finding relief from emotional burdens.
Processing past trauma: If you have experienced past trauma, therapy can bring up unresolved emotions related to those experiences, including anger. Working through trauma is a necessary part of the healing process, but it can be difficult and emotionally challenging.
Adjustment to therapy: Starting therapy is a significant change, and any change can cause stress and emotional reactions, including anger.
It's essential to communicate these feelings with your therapist. They can help you explore and understand the reasons behind your anger and guide you through the process of addressing and managing these emotions constructively. Remember that therapy is a journey, and experiencing strong emotions is a natural part of the healing process. Over time, with the support and guidance of your therapist, you may find that these emotions become more manageable, and you gain greater insight and personal growth.