Yes, you are justified in asking your therapist not to share the content of your therapy sessions with your mom (or anyone else) without your explicit consent. Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in therapy, and it forms the basis of a trusting therapeutic relationship. It allows you to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and honestly without fear of judgment or repercussions.
Therapists are bound by ethical and legal guidelines that require them to maintain the confidentiality of their clients' information. They are generally not allowed to disclose any information about you or your sessions unless:
- You provide explicit consent to share specific information with a particular person or entity.
- There is a legal requirement to disclose information, such as if there's a risk of harm to yourself or others.
- There is a suspicion of child abuse or neglect, in which case they may be mandated by law to report it to the appropriate authorities.
However, it's essential to have an open discussion with your therapist about confidentiality at the beginning of your therapy journey. Understand what their policies are and how they handle confidentiality. You can also discuss any specific concerns you have about information being shared with your mom or others and the circumstances under which you'd be comfortable with limited disclosure.
If you feel uncomfortable discussing certain topics in therapy because you worry about potential repercussions if your mom were to find out, it's essential to communicate these concerns with your therapist. They can work with you to create a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions.
Remember that therapy is designed to support you and help you navigate through challenges in your life. Trust and open communication with your therapist are vital to making progress and achieving your therapy goals. If you ever feel uncertain about your therapist's approach or their handling of confidentiality, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion or consider finding another therapist who better aligns with your needs and preferences.