Struggling To Speak In Therapy.

[talon]

Yes, I struggle with this too a lot. It feels like I know what I need to say, but I can verbally form t...

good . often we can get inspiration but when confronted it disappears

 

[hymnless]

Hi guys!

I've recently began trauma therapy - mainly CBT focused, however I'm really struggling. I was...

Oh god yes. I told my T that I had been raped in our very first session, but waited 4 years to mention any other part of my extensive trauma history. Although I know I need to talk more, it's actually been really helpful to build a trusting relationship with someone who isn't afraid of the silence. I think that has actually been one of the most helpful things that I've had happen throughout therapy.

 

[James McGregor]

Hi guys!

I've recently began trauma therapy - mainly CBT focused, however I'm really struggling. I was...

to be honest i struggle with CBT based therapy, i dont find the model at all helpful, its far too restrictive to be useful. I know it does help some, but there are many other therapeutic approaches

 

[purplebear13]

Hi guys!

I've recently began trauma therapy - mainly CBT focused, however I'm really struggling. I was...

I have almost the exact same problem. Sometimes it helps to write it. Other times my T will ask questions about the specific trauma, so I don't have to put it into words myself. Maybe that's something you could ask them to do? I know that the most embarrassing and difficult part for me is saying the words out loud. Everybody's different, but maybe these will help...

Also, it's not at all ridiculous that you partially remember some of the trauma. It's normal. I can almost promise that. Sometimes in order to survive, the brain blocks things out.

Remember that you're not alone and you're incredibly strong to even be asking for help.

Hugs (if you accept)!

 

[Deleted member 47384]

I was like this for the longest time. It wasn't until over a year into my treatment that I was even able to get the words out in the vaguest terms. I had to build up a lot of trust with my therapist first, and only recently I've been able to be open about it with my friends.

For me, personally, I opened up out of frustration. I was so, so tired from being the only one uncomfortable all the time, constantly being reminded in little ways of what had happened to me. I figured, to hell with it, I'll speak up when someone says something uncomfortable, and if they get uncomfy too, well, at least now I'm not alone.
I dunno how healthy of an outlet that is, but for me, it got the job done.

But of course, opening up to a therapist and opening up to a friend are totally different ballgames. Your therapist is someone who should be professional and understanding of your trauma, and knows how to help you find peace and heal. And if they act like your trauma is embarrassing or weird, then it's time to pack up and find a new therapist.

Good luck to everybody struggling with this. It's hard, but so, so worth it once you're able to get the words out. It's one of the first big steps toward recovery, and it's scary and feels terrible at first. But it's sorta like ripping the bandaid off, you know?

You got this!!!

 

[Mach123]

IDK if I ever heard anyone say they didn't go through this. It's in the books. My current therapist is my fourth or fifth trauma therapist. She specialises in CSA and all kinds of sexual abuse. I walked in and said "you and I are going to do this." Three years later we were talking about stuff, now it's pretty much all out. For me, just saying it was only the beginning. Then we had to process it, which we are continually doing now. You're lucky, you're young. Hopefully you'll have the time you need.