The idea of going to a counselor for mental health/sexuality scares me to death. I fear that breach of confidentiality or my "friends"/family might ask questions I dont wanna answer. What do i do?
4 Answers
Last Updated: 01/18/2022 at 11:20am
Moderated by
Stacey Kiger, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
My belief is that therapy is not about giving advice, but joining you on your journey
Top Rated Answers
I can imagine that would be really scary! You could talk to the counsellor about their confidentiality agreement before the session to make sure you're on the same page - depending on your age there are some things they would have to tell your family (basically if you were at risk of harming yourself), but otherwise most (if not all) counsellors are required to keep all things confidential. As for your friends/family asking questions, you could just tell them that you don't feel comfortable talking about it and they should respect that.
Firstly, you never have to answer any question that you are uncomfortable to regarding anyone. Start with finding a therapist you flow with. It took me 5 different people to find the right person I connected with. The only way you'll solve your problems is if you have trust. Trust in yourself and trust in others that they will support you along your mission.
I understand that asking for help is one of the hardest things you can do. You worry that you might be judged or ridiculed if people found out. An important thing to know is that counselors are bound by law, and a breach in confidentiality would result in major punishments. It's okay to ask for help, especially from a counsellor/therapist. They are trained in their field and can help in ways other people can't. If you're worried about your family asking questions, you could tell them that, or if you're uncomfortable telling your family talking to someone is a good choice.
First of all, if there is someone who poses to you questions that make you feel uneasy, you don't need to answer. You can choose when you want to share something personal and others have to respect this. As far as your fear about seeing a professional is concerned, you could write down some questions that you want to ask them so that you understand better how you are going to work together. It is very important that you find a counselor who makes you feel comfortable and who treats you with respect. It is usual to feel scared before going to a counselor, but you don't have to let this feeling dominate you, as there are so many important things that you can learn through therapy!
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