What is projection in therapy?

Ed, LCSW, projection refers to unconsciously taking unwanted emotions or traits you don’t like about yourself and attributing them to someone else. A common example is a cheating spouse who suspects their partner is being unfaithful.

What does it look like when someone is projecting?

Here are some signs that you might be projecting: Feeling overly hurt, defensive, or sensitive about something someone has said or done. Feeling highly reactive and quick to blame. Difficulty being objective, getting perspective, and standing in the other person’s shoes.

Should I tell my therapist when I’m angry or disappointed?

That doesn’t mean it’s easy to do this, however. Especially because it feels weird to be angry at someone who’s entire job is about, well, helping you. But when I finally started telling my therapist when I felt angry or disappointed in him, it deepened our relationship and trust in one another.

What happens when you work with the wrong therapist?

And because highly sensitive people like you and me process things deeply, working with the wrong therapist can leave us more emotionally wounded than when we first walked into their office. While some people can easily move on from a bad therapy experience, HSPs may ruminate and blame themselves over why things didn’t work out.

Do you have to convince your therapist to do the right thing?

You don’t have to convince them that you’re a stand-up person who always does the right thing. You hired your therapist to help you address some things about yourself and your relationships: When you’re in their office, let them do their job. “Try to see them as an employee to some extent,” Brittle said.

Should you let your therapist know you’re grateful for their help?

It’s not the sort of situation where you can just send an edible arrangement and call it a day. What I’ve learned, though, is that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with letting your therapist know how grateful you are for their impact on your life. They like being told they’re doing a good job, too, you know.