How Do I Tell My Therapist About My STI Diagnosis?
How do you tell your therapist that you’re struggling with a positive STI diagnosis?
This post required a few foundational posts (finding a good therapist, acknowledging humanity) before it launched.
In my own diagnosis-despair, I asked myself this very question. I answered it, too. “They’ll shame me. They’ll never understand. They’ll just judge me like the others.” This is the moment I come back to when I think about what drives me in my career.
The slides attached include a few self-reflective pieces when considering your disclosure to your current therapist, or finding a therapist to support your disclosure.
I also realize that specialized therapy services are not always accessible to everyone. If therapy is not accessible to you at this time, here are a few of my go-to resources, including two online groups, that will hold space and support you during your journey of unlearning STI stigma and getting back to yourself.
Signs Your Therapist is a Good Match for your STI Conversations
As a budding clinician, I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on the kind of therapist I am striving to become. I’ve had some great therapy experiences, and some interactions that never even made it past the initial phone-call.
Just because someone comes highly recommended, has a certain number of Instagram followers, or five-star Google reviews doesn’t mean that they are the right match for you.
Here are just a few signs (read: not ALL) that you and your therapist might be a good match.
Offers a safe holding space and allows you the opportunity to leave if you feel they aren’t a good fit.
They are honest about what you can expect in therapy and how they will support you through your growth. Some moments will be uncomfortable and challenging—your therapist should work with you to support your growth, not against you, when these times arise.
You feel seen, heard, acknowledged, and understood. Your therapist actively listens and remembers pieces from prior sessions. You’re learning together.
They’re not afraid to apologize or admit when they don’t know something. Therapists are human, too.