4 things your therapist wants you to know (or at least I do)

As psychotherapists, our role is to help you work through whatever challenges or difficulties may be troubling you. Within a therapy setting, we aim to be open, honest and compassionate - but did you know that there are some things we would like you to know too?

Things your therapist wants you to know

Here are four things I would like all of my clients to keep in mind as they work with me to improve their mental health.

1. We really want the best for you

As a therapist, we want you to know that we really do care about you and want the best for you. This means that, sometimes, we may say things that are tough to hear. But it's only because we want to help you grow and reach your full potential. We may at times challenge you on some of your beliefs or assumptions, as this process often highlights experiences you may have dismissed and increases the potential for you to change, adapt, manage and improve.

We believe in you, even when you don't believe in yourself. We may push you outside of your comfort zone. But it's only because we know that's where the real psychological and emotional growth is likely to occur. It won't be easy, but it will be worth it. So please trust us when we say that we really do want the best for you.

2. We are human too

As your therapist, we want you to know that we are human too. Just like you, we have our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. We may not always understand exactly what you are going through, but we will always try our best to understand, empathise and, ultimately, help you.

It's important to remember that we are not perfect. Just like you, we are human beings with our own set of flaws and imperfections. We may sometimes say things that you do not find as helpful, but it’s important to remember we are exploring these difficulties with you.

We are committed to doing our best to help you, but contrary to popular belief we are not mindreaders. Sometimes, it can be difficult for us to understand what you are thinking or feeling and it is important for you to communicate openly and honestly with us so that we can provide the best possible support we can.

3. We want you to tell us when you disagree

It's perfectly normal to disagree with your therapist from time to time. In fact, it's encouraged! Your therapist wants you to feel comfortable expressing your opinions and thoughts, even if they differ from our own.

We want to create an open and safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, and that means sometimes we may not understand and need you to clarify if you disagree. So please, don't be afraid to speak up if you disagree with something we say. We're here to listen.

4. Your information is truly confidential

Your information is truly confidential. It's crucial to remember that we are bound by law to keep your discussion in therapy confidential (except when a crime has been committed or you are likely to cause harm to yourself or others). This means that your therapist will not share anything you tell them with anyone else without your permission. 

Therapy is a safe space

Therapy is ultimately a safe place for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, with your therapist creating a safe and supportive environment for you to explore the things that are bothering you. You can trust that we won't judge you or try to take your decisions away from you. We will simply be there to support and guide you as you work through your challenges.