Croton, NY: 
Maybe it is your first time attending a therapy session, and you are wondering what to say and what not to say. Well, there is no topic that is out of bounds in the therapies, and that is what makes therapy. You might have heard that honesty and openness is a vital part of experiencing change. You are free to bring out your mind and feelings without fear, a chance you can only get during therapy. It is normal to wonder what to share during therapy, and that is why we are here to guide you on the topics to talk about so that you can have productive sessions with your counselor.
Personal History
Since some people do not know the root of their problems, therapists advise their clients to take them through their background. You can talk about your upbringing, family dynamics, mental health concerns and other significant life experiences. These talks are important especially when it is your first time to meet a therapist and you are getting to know each other. Telling your counselor about your personal history helps them to determine if you are right fit for each other. It also creates a strong bond between you and your therapist leading to a successful journey.
Current Challenges
It is crucial to let the counselor know what brought you to therapy before anything for them to know if they are the right fit for your problem. Whether its life changes like job loss or mental health challenges, discussing them with your therapists helps them establish your goals for therapy. The stressors that brought you to therapy can change along the way and new challenges might arise. Share every challenge including the old and new to gain more from sessions.
Small Issues
Most people think that they are required to talk about serious issues in therapy. However, the smallest issues you might think are unnecessary can provide insights and help the counselor know your problem. Talk about whatever you want and everything you feel bothering you no matter how small you think it is. Talk about fears, disappointments, shame, dreams, and interactions with your partner or parents.
Feelings and Emotions
Your feelings might seem like an obvious topic to discuss during therapy but might be easily forgotten, especially when you are feeling better. When talking about negative feelings, don’t forget about positive feelings. They might be a major indicator that the journey is yielding fruits. They help the therapist to know the new skills you have learned and how they contribute to helping you meet your goals.
Copping Mechanism
When in therapy, sharing what you would like to work on is the first step towards healing. Then, you set goals and develop coping mechanisms through the help of your therapist. You learn skills to help you solve problems inside therapy and outside sessions. Your counselor might assign you homework to help you practice how to cope and solve problems. Practising helps you remember what you might have forgotten to talk about during the session.
In conclusion, therapy is an open ground where you can say whatever is in your mind without fearing judgment. You are given an opportunity to say things you might find hard to say to your friends or family. Talk about your past and present challenges, feelings and emotions, relationship issues, and goals. Be honest and fearless in order to get the maximum benefits of therapy.