Insights From Devon Frye's Article On What To Talk About In Therapy

​Choosing what to discuss can feel daunting for someone new to the process. Here's what clients should keep in mind.
Feeling overwhelmed about what to discuss in your therapy sessions? Here are some considerations to make the process smoother:

Freedom to Talk About Anything
Clients have the freedom to discuss anything during therapy, ranging from relationship issues and past trauma to work difficulties and complex emotions. However, this freedom can be intimidating, especially for those with anxiety who may avoid sharing their worries.

Overcoming the Obstacle
To overcome the challenge of choosing a discussion topic, clients can create a game plan before sessions. This involves identifying one or two concrete areas to address. General questions like "Why did I decide to seek therapy now?" or "Where in my life am I getting stuck?" can be useful. Exploring outcomes, internal processes, and using metaphors may aid self-exploration.

Addressing Therapist Silence
Therapists using evidence-based methods often guide conversations through questions or observations. However, some therapists follow a more traditional, psychoanalytic approach with less input. Clients who prefer a more interactive approach may need to find a better match with their therapist.

Confidentiality Concerns
Confidentiality is a crucial aspect of therapy. Therapists are ethically bound to protect clients' confidentiality unless there's an imminent danger or legal obligation. Clients are encouraged to discuss confidentiality to ease any concerns they may have.

Setting Boundaries
Clients may hesitate to share vulnerable information, and that's entirely normal. Setting boundaries is encouraged, and ethical therapists respect these limits. While effective therapy may involve some discomfort, clients should feel empowered to discuss what they're comfortable sharing.

Embracing Vulnerability
The article concludes by highlighting the transformative power of vulnerability in therapy over time. Despite initial reservations, sharing things that once felt unshareable can lead to significant personal growth and healing.

Embarking on your therapy journey can be a powerful step towards self-discovery and well-being. Remember, it's okay not to have all the answers right away. Your therapist is there to support you on your unique path.