I don't know how to bring it up?

[treble.maker]

So I don't know if this is the right place for this, but it seemed to sort of work?

I have been seeing a T. for a month, but I'm having a huge difficulty with telling her that I was abused/assaulted. And I don't know how obvious it is in my demeanour and everything else I have going on, so she might already know, but it just seems impossible for me to straight up tell her! Sometimes when I try to talk about it, it's like I literally can NOT get the words out - like something is physically stopping me from speaking. Does this happen to anyone else?

Anyway, another reason I really don't want to tell her is because I am afraid she will have to report the abuse. I didn't think this was the case in anyone over the age of 18, and I'm sure the statute of limitations is up on it anyway, but I recently heard they have to tell anyway. I REALLY don't want to confront my abuser like this at this moment.

Anyways, any thoughts are welcome...

 

[Lucycat]

Hi TM,

I am sorry that you have this dilemma. Please appreciate that the rules are different in different countries, so take advice with caution.

Here in the UK if you report abuse that does not affect a child currently at risk then there is no obligation on the therapist to report it. I came into a situation whereby I felt forced to admit the abuse more than 30 years after the event. This resulted in a successful prosecution. But different laws in different places.

I hope you feel able to talk to your T about her status and her obligations before you divulge whatever you feel you need to tell her. You need the ground rules set first - for the benefit of both of you.

 

[Heartbrokenbyfamily]

The law is also the same in Canada. If you are an adult reporting historical sexual abuse..the therapist has to maintain your confidentiality. If the information is reported by a child under 16 then it has to be reported. Hope this helps.

 

[treble.maker]

Thank you both for responding - I've been looking up mandated reporting in the US, and there seems to be some sort of disagreement about this. I can't find an exact answer, even on the APA official website! So I think I will just have to ask her before I say anything, then.. this will be fun, I can already tell! ;)

 

[Rumors]

In the US, unless the abuse involves a minor, the T maintains confidentiality. It is up to the adult to disclose the abuse or press charges. I think where the question may lie is if the abuser is still in contact with other children who may be at risk. However, for your own comfort level, I think you most definitely should ask and be ok with the answer before you divulge yourself.

Good luck!!! Sending strength!

 

[BattleBarbie]

That is a good question. Most therapists I know would keep it confidential.

 

[bailz]

While I think as an adult it woudl remain confidential, but if you are unsure and on't want to ask your T then you can tell them of the abuse and leave your abuser anonymous. :) best of luck to you!