How To Disclose Something Embarrassing To Therapist?

[ellienad]

I started seeing a therapist this past week for an issue/past experience that is giving me panic attacks and causing huge anxiety. However, in the first session I talked a lot about my life and such, and having anxiety in general, but managed to avoid divulging anything about this issue. I want to be able to open up about it, as that's one of the main reasons I am seeing a therapist, but I am SO nervous and anxiety ridden thinking about bringing it up. Does anyone have any words of wisdom on how to bring it up to my therapist? I really feel like I should have at the first session...

 

[Ghostybear73]

It's good to get to know your therapist first. I'm sure the first visit, they were getting to know you as well. You will open up when you are ready, don't force it. I'm sure your therapist knows this, so don't worry about not bringing it up right away. It's a process that sometimes takes time, so relax and pat yourself on the back for making it through your first session. ;)

 

[franciemarnie]

You could also say there is something you want to bring up sometime but you feel anxious talking about it yet. Sometimes if I just say I am anxious out loud to the person I am feeling anxious with, it kills it a little and takes some weight off me.

But like Ghostybear said, only talk about the issue when you are ready.

It is your ball game. You are in control. You can say as little or as much as you want. When you feel safe to say it, you will know.

 

[Angelwings]

When you are ready, I find it easier to type an email about the issue I'm embarrassed about sharing, or scared about sharing. Sometimes the words just won't come out of your mouth.

 

[ellienad]

Thank you for your help and quick responses everyone. I feel like it's something I need to bring up with my therapist early on, as I won't be able to move forward and have the therapy be effective with it looming over. So I guess I've answered a bit of my own question, it's not a question of if, but more how. I like the idea of writing it in an email, or even just the thought of being able to write it out, rather than saying it, puts me at ease a bit.