Is There Such a Thing as “Too Much Information” in Therapy?
- Category: Anna Bellard
- November 19, 2024
TMI in Therapy?
It’s natural to feel nervous about opening up in therapy. “Am I sharing too much” or “Is this too much”. These questions are normal, and they bring up a good point – Is there such thing as “too much information” in therapy? The quick answer? Probably not.
Therapy is a space designed for openness and vulnerability, and the things you feel hesitant or embarrassed to share are often the most important to bring up.
Some of the most impactful therapy sessions stem from moments when clients say, “I feel like this is TMI, but I need to share it.” These disclosures often unlock profound healing and progress.
Why Do We Hold Back?
Many of us hesitate to share personal experiences, thoughts, or feelings out of fear of judgment or rejection. We label these moments as “too much information” because they feel messy, or overly intimate. These feelings are often rooted in shame, a powerful emotion that thrives in silence.
However, keeping these things bottled up can weigh heavily on us, amplifying feelings of isolation and self-doubt. When you choose to trust your therapist with these vulnerable parts of yourself, you take a vital step in processing and reducing that shame. Therapy works best when it’s a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can speak your truth.
The Power of Speaking Shame Out Loud
Shame grows in secrecy, but it loses its grip when spoken aloud in a trusted space. When you bring these “TMI” moments into therapy, you create an opportunity for self-compassion and understanding. Naming the things you feel ashamed of helps dismantle the power they hold over you.
It’s common for people to hesitate to discussing intimate topics, mistakes, or hidden identities. Yet, these areas of discomfort are often where the most growth happens. Sharing them with a trained therapist can help you uncover new perspectives and begin healing.
Building Trust with Your Therapist
A key element of feeling safe to share is trust in your therapeutic relationship. If you believe your therapist understands you, respects you, and provides a supportive environment, it becomes easier to open up. Therapists are bound by confidentiality, and their role is to guide you without judgment, creating a space where vulnerability is not only allowed but encouraged.
If you find yourself holding back, it might be worth reflecting on your relationship with your therapist. Ask yourself: Do I feel comfortable sharing my true self here? If the answer is yes, take the leap and share what’s been weighing on you. If not, it may be time to consider whether your current therapist is the right fit for you.
How Sharing “TMI” Can Transform Your Therapy Experience
When you bring your most vulnerable thoughts to therapy, it can feel uncomfortable at first. But this discomfort is often where growth begins. By exploring the things you’d rather avoid, you gain clarity, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and start to rewrite your story.
For instance, sharing a mistake you’re ashamed of could lead to understanding how self-compassion can replace self-criticism. Talking about identity-related struggles could reveal internalized beliefs you didn’t realize were affecting you. These conversations often lead to profound breakthroughs and a deeper connection to yourself.
Final Thoughts: There’s No Such Thing as TMI in Therapy
Therapy is one of the few places in life where there truly is no such thing as “too much information.” What feels like “TMI” to you is often the key to unlocking deeper healing and growth. By naming the things you feel ashamed or embarrassed to share, you take an important step toward freeing yourself from the burden of shame.
As Anna Ballard reminds us, “Shame grows in silence.” Speaking it out loud in a supportive space with someone you trust—like your therapist—helps to break that silence and start the process of healing. So if you’re wondering whether to share something in therapy, the answer is: Yes, absolutely. Share it.
