It's important to be open and honest with your therapist about what you're going through so they can provide you with the appropriate support and help. Therapists are bound by ethical and legal guidelines to maintain client confidentiality, which means they cannot disclose information to others, including your mom, without your explicit consent, except in specific situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.
Here are some steps you can take to discuss your concerns about possibly having bulimia with your therapist while maintaining confidentiality:
Trust your therapist: Remember that therapists are trained professionals who are there to help you. They are not there to judge you but to provide support and guidance. Trust in their expertise and their commitment to confidentiality.
Express your concerns directly: During your therapy session, find a comfortable moment to share your thoughts and feelings. You can say something like, "I've been having some concerns about my eating habits, and I think I might have bulimia, but I'm not sure. I wanted to talk to you about it."
Discuss confidentiality: It can be helpful to clarify the therapist's confidentiality policy at the beginning of the conversation. You can ask about their guidelines regarding information sharing and assure them that you want to keep this matter between the two of you.
Understand the limits of confidentiality: While therapists typically maintain confidentiality, they may have to break it if they believe there is a risk of harm to you or others. It's essential to know what situations might require them to disclose information, so you have a clear understanding.
Ask about their approach: Inquire about how they handle sensitive issues like eating disorders. Understanding their approach may help you feel more comfortable discussing your concerns.
Focus on your feelings and experiences: Share how your behaviors and emotions are affecting you and your life. Discussing your feelings and struggles can help the therapist better understand your situation and provide appropriate support.
Request privacy: If you still feel uneasy about the possibility of your mom finding out, you can explicitly request that your therapist does not share this information with anyone, including your mom.
Remember that your therapist is there to help you and support your well-being. Sharing your concerns about bulimia is an important step towards getting the assistance you need. Eating disorders can be serious, and early intervention and treatment can make a significant difference. If you find it challenging to talk about this with your current therapist, consider seeking a specialized therapist who specializes in eating disorders to ensure you receive the most appropriate help.