Is this an unusual thing for a mental health professional

[Dothingsright]

To say. I’ve been having some problems with something in particular. The mental health professional found out and said. “I thought you would have told me this when we’ve know each other for so long.

Some professionals think a 'familiar' bedside manner is soothing. So it doesn't sound unusual.

But it obviously isn't working for you and your health is the important thing, so don't be afraid to let them know you prefer a bit more 'professional distance'.

I assume it's a clumsy way of asking "why have you brought this up before and why now".

Do you normally feel comfortable with them?

Yeah sounds clumsy to me. I would never phrase it like that, though if it was important to the clients progress I might gently inquire about why they held the info back - maybe it just means they weren't ready to discuss it or that they hadn't built up trust in our therapeutic relationship yet, maybe they were afraid of what action I might need to take (eg. Mandatory reporting of certain issues).

It came out due to something that happened. They are okay I don’t have an issue with them.

Why would that be unusual? For me, it would be like not telling your physio that you have a knee injury when they are working on your leg and I wouldn't be surprised if they said the above either.

Just seems a bit familiar.

@Dothingsright

Just seems a bit familiar.

Ah, I see. I suppose it depends on the type of relationship that you have with your therapist as different patients have different needs.

In my case, we entered into a dynamic where she almost became a mother figure to me despite not being much older than me. This was due to me never having felt unconditional love or feeling heard and understood. It was exactly what I needed to heal. It was never discussed, it was just how I felt.

Some people may benefit from a 'professional distance' in which case it might help to mention that it felt a bit familiar. I always found we had the absolute best relationship possible if I was honest and open about my feelings about the therapy and her approach to me. If you have a good therapist, they will reflect on it and discuss it with their mentor to see how they can change their approach to suit your needs.

Thank you I guess its an individual things.