Geraldine Merola Barton, Ph.D.

Clinical Psychologist

G. M. Barton, Ph.D. Home

About Dr. Barton

Driving Directions

Articles by Dr. Barton:

Change Thru Psychotherapy

How to Criticize Lovingly

Winter Blues: SAD

Focus On: Depression

Focus On: Anxiety

Quick Facts

You Asked

Stress Scale

Core Values & Your Life

Interviews w Dr. Barton:

Interview:TimesHerald

Interview:CascoBayWeekly

You Asked
  Q:  Do I have to tell my therapist everything about every issue? What if I don’t feel comfortable revealing some facts? Can I still effectively address surrounding issues?
 
A. The fact that you’re wondering whether to tell your therapist something is a clue it’s something your therapist needs to know!
 
It’s your therapist’s job to put together seemingly disparate pieces to a puzzle, in order to help you see connections and make healthy changes.  When you withhold pieces of the puzzle, you risk limiting the effectiveness of your therapy.

Think about your reasons for wanting to withhold information.  Is it shame about things you have done or experienced?  Do you have difficulty trusting the therapist?  Do you often withhold parts of yourself in relationships?  I encourage you to talk to your therapist about your hesitation to fully disclose.  A good therapist can help you resolve your difficulty.  The very act of exploring your reasons for wanting to withhold information can be an important part of a therapeutic process. 




Geraldine Merola Barton, Ph.D.                                                  

159 Green Street                                                                                             351 Manville Road, Suite 101                                   
Kingston, NY 12401                                                                                      Pleasantville, NY 10570
845-338-3250                                                                                                  914-539-2646

email:  drgmbarton@drgmbarton.com                                                 

© 2001-2009, Geraldine Merola Barton, Ph.D.
                                                            11-16-2009

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