Navigating PTSD Discussion with Your Long-Term Therapist

Many individuals find that bringing up potential symptoms of PTSD with a long-term therapist can be challenging, even if the therapist lacks specific training in this area. This can lead to discomfort and a lack of appropriate support. In this article, we will explore several strategies to help you navigate this important conversation.

Building a Comfortable Dialogue

It is important to consider how to bring up your concerns with your therapist in a way that ensures a safe and supportive conversation. Your long-term therapist is someone you have built a trust relationship with, and it might be difficult to initiate a change. However, it’s essential to address your concerns to ensure that you receive the support you need.

Open the conversation by mentioning that you feel the need to discuss possible PTSD with a therapist who is more experienced or trained in this area. You can say:

"I am seeing this incorrectly perhaps, but I feel that it would be beneficial to address some of my concerns related to PTSD with a therapist who has more experience in this area."

This approach allows you to express your need without putting the therapist on the defensive.

Exploring the Options

It is also a good idea to explore the possibility of working with a therapist who is more comfortable addressing PTSD. Some therapists are willing to work in tandem with a specialist, providing you with support from two sources. This can help you gain a wider range of perspectives and a more comprehensive understanding of your experiences.

You can propose:

"Could we consider working with a therapist who has more experience with PTSD? I believe that combining our work could lead to better outcomes for me."

Discussing the benefits and potential outcomes can help your therapist see the value in exploring this option.

Highlighting Concerns with Specific Examples

If your therapist consistently shifts the focus away from your PTSD-related concerns, it might be helpful to provide specific examples. This can help you assert your needs and ensure that your therapist understands the importance of addressing this issue.

Here is an example of how you might frame your concerns:

"Every time I mention that I feel I might have PTSD, you gently change the subject. This has happened __________ (describe when or how many times). We have been working together for a long time, and I feel that it is important for you to address these concerns with me."

By providing specific details, you can make your concerns more concrete and less ambiguous for your therapist.

Understanding PTSD and Its Symptoms

Understanding the nature of PTSD and its symptoms can be helpful in initiating discussions with your therapist. PTSD is a psychological response to trauma and can manifest in various ways. It is important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms to better communicate your experiences.

Consider reading more about PTSD symptoms, such as:

“PTSD symptoms” and “Generalized Anxiety Disorder symptoms”

Knowledge about anxiety disorders in general can also provide a broader context for your experiences. This can help you engage in more insightful conversations with your therapist and ensure that your concerns are thoroughly addressed.

Seeking Additional Support

If you feel that your current therapist is not providing the support you need, it may be time to explore additional options. There are many resources available, both within and outside of therapy, that can provide you with additional support.

Consider:

Seeking a referral to a therapist who specializes in PTSD. Exploring therapy groups or online support groups. Engaging in self-care practices such as mindfulness and physical exercise.

Honing in on self-care practices can also complement your therapy and help manage your symptoms in the meantime.

Conclusion

It can be challenging to navigate the conversation about potential PTSD with a long-term therapist who lacks specific training. By building a comfortable dialogue, exploring options, and highlighting your concerns with specific examples, you can ensure that your needs are met. Additionally, understanding the nature of PTSD and its symptoms can help you communicate more effectively with your therapist. If you continue to feel unsupported, seek additional resources to support your well-being.