Posted by Tabitha on September 27, 2003, at 18:03:56
In reply to Using Sessions Better - Need Advice, posted by DaisyM on September 27, 2003, at 16:49:25
I share your frustration-- I often have emotional reactions after a situation rather than during it. I'm not sure how to speed up the process, but I think that as you get more connected to your feelings, the delay gets shorter.
Do you discuss the train wreck feelings in your next session? That's important-- at least it brings your feelings into therapy, even if they're one session old.
You also might notice if you do anything to intentionally suppress your feelings in the session-- like tensing your body or holding your breath at times. If so, try to consciously relax.
I think your insight that it's related to trust is probably right on target. It may just take time to feel safe enough to have feelings in front of your therapist. I've been in therapy for ten years and it's still not always easy for me to show feelings in the session.
Lastly, you might just challenge your assumption that you 'should' be having your feelings during the session at this point. You're there to learn about yourself-- and you're learning it's hard for you to show feelings. In a way you're using the sessions exactly right. You might just discuss it as a goal in therapy, then you can measure progress. Getting more connected to your feelings is likely to happen-- just give yourself a little time.
poster:Tabitha
thread:263778
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20030925/msgs/263795.html