Yes, you absolutely can discuss this concern with your therapist. Therapists are trained to work with clients who experience difficulties in expressing emotions, including crying. It's not uncommon for individuals to have mental blocks or difficulties in accessing and expressing emotions during therapy sessions, and therapists are skilled in helping clients navigate these challenges.
When you feel a mental block or dissociate during emotional moments, it could be a sign of emotional discomfort or fear of vulnerability. This is a common reaction, and your therapist will understand and work with you to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore and express your emotions at your own pace.
Here are some ways your therapist might help you:
Create a Safe Space: Your therapist will focus on building a trusting and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship, providing a safe space for you to explore and express your emotions without fear of being criticized or rejected.
Identify Emotional Blocks: Your therapist will work with you to identify the underlying reasons for the mental block or emotional shutdown. This process might involve exploring past experiences, traumas, or coping mechanisms that may be contributing to the difficulty in expressing emotions.
Use Emotional Regulation Techniques: Therapists can teach you various emotional regulation techniques to help you manage intense emotions and anxiety during sessions. These techniques can help you feel more comfortable and grounded when facing emotional moments.
Gradual Exposure: Therapists may take a gradual approach, slowly introducing emotional topics and allowing you to practice expressing feelings in a controlled and supportive environment.
Validate Your Experience: Your therapist will validate your feelings and experiences, helping you understand that it's okay to have emotions and that they are an essential part of the therapeutic process.
Encourage Self-Compassion: Therapists often encourage self-compassion, helping you be kind to yourself and accepting of your emotions, even when they feel overwhelming or difficult to manage.
Processing the Emotions: When you feel ready, your therapist will guide you through the process of exploring and processing the emotions that arise, helping you gain insight and understanding.
Remember that therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist is there to support you and help you work through your challenges in a way that feels safe and beneficial to you. Being open and honest with your therapist about your feelings and concerns will allow them to tailor the therapy to meet your specific needs and goals.