First of all, congratulations on being ready to address your eating disorder (ED). It takes courage to open up about such personal and challenging issues. Remember that therapists are there to support you, and they should understand that it can take time for clients to feel comfortable discussing certain topics, especially sensitive ones like eating disorders.
Here are some steps you can take to bring up your eating disorder during your therapy sessions:
Choose the right time: Look for a moment during your therapy session when you feel comfortable and have enough time to discuss your concerns. If you feel rushed or distracted, it may not be the best time to bring up a significant issue.
Be honest and direct: When you're ready, be straightforward and honest with your therapist. You can say something like, "I've been wanting to talk about something that's been bothering me for a while. I think I have an eating disorder, and I would like to address it in our sessions."
Express your reasons for waiting: Let your therapist know why you waited to bring it up. It's okay to explain that you needed time to feel comfortable discussing it or that you were unsure how to approach the topic.
Share your readiness to address it now: Emphasize that you are now ready and committed to addressing your eating disorder and seeking help.
Discuss your treatment goals: Talk about what you hope to achieve by addressing your eating disorder in therapy. This can help your therapist understand how they can best support you.
Expect empathy and understanding: A good therapist should be empathetic and understanding about your decision to wait and your current disclosure. They should appreciate the importance of trust and the need for you to feel safe in the therapeutic relationship.
Collaboration in your treatment: Work together with your therapist to develop a plan for addressing your eating disorder. They may recommend specialized treatment, such as working with an eating disorder specialist or a dietitian.
Assess your therapist's response: Pay attention to how your therapist responds. A professional therapist should be supportive and non-judgmental, helping you explore your feelings and behaviors surrounding the eating disorder.
Remember that therapy is a confidential space, and therapists are bound by ethical guidelines to maintain confidentiality. They are there to support you in your journey toward healing and growth, and their primary concern will be your well-being.
If, for any reason, you don't feel comfortable discussing your eating disorder with your current therapist, you might consider seeking a specialized therapist or counselor who has experience in eating disorder treatment. The most important thing is to find a therapist who can offer you the support and expertise you need in your recovery process.