It's essential to feel validated and supported by your therapist when discussing sensitive topics such as abuse history, trauma, and mental health issues. While therapists may not explicitly reveal their beliefs, there are several signs that indicate they are taking your experiences seriously and are empathetic towards your situation:
Active listening: A supportive therapist will actively listen to you without interrupting or judging. They will demonstrate genuine interest in your experiences, emotions, and thoughts.
Empathy: Therapists who believe in your experiences and feelings will show empathy and understanding. They will acknowledge the pain and challenges you've faced and validate your emotions.
Validation of emotions: Your therapist should validate your emotions and reactions, acknowledging that they are natural responses to your experiences.
Non-judgmental attitude: A therapist who believes you will create a safe and non-judgmental space, where you can share openly without fear of being criticized or blamed.
Emotional support: They will offer emotional support during difficult conversations, helping you process emotions and cope with distressing memories.
No minimization or invalidation: A supportive therapist will not downplay or invalidate your experiences, dismissing them as insignificant or irrelevant.
Encouragement to share: They will encourage you to share your experiences at a pace that feels comfortable for you, respecting your boundaries and limitations.
Collaborative approach: A therapist who believes you will work collaboratively with you to set treatment goals and develop coping strategies tailored to your unique needs and experiences.
Trauma-informed care: They will demonstrate knowledge of trauma and its effects, using trauma-informed approaches in therapy to ensure your safety and well-being.
Continued engagement: A therapist who believes in your experiences will remain engaged and committed to your treatment progress, helping you navigate the healing journey.
Refraining from disbelief or doubt: A supportive therapist will not express disbelief or doubt about your experiences or mental health challenges.
Remember that therapy is a process of building trust and rapport with your therapist over time. If you feel unsure about how your therapist perceives your experiences or concerns, it is valid to discuss your feelings and seek clarification. Open communication is crucial for a productive therapeutic relationship. If, after addressing your concerns, you still feel uneasy or mistrustful, it might be worth considering finding a different therapist who can better meet your needs.