Dissociation During Therapy: Understanding and Coping
Dissociation During Therapy: Understanding and Coping
There are instances when we might experience unexpected emotional responses even in a safe and supportive environment, such as during sessions with a therapist. One such moment can be particularly perplexing: feeling very safe with your therapist but dissociating when they offer a hug. This phenomenon, while concerning, is a common response to past experiences, emotional triggers, or the overwhelming nature of the moment. Here, we explore the possible reasons behind dissociation during a hug with a trusted therapist and offer strategies for coping.
Emotional Overwhelm
After a particularly challenging session, one might feel an array of intense emotions. A simple hug, though consensual, can trigger overwhelming feelings that are difficult to process all at once. Dissociation can serve as a protective mechanism, shielding you from these unmanageable emotions. The intensity of these emotions can make the hug feel more distressing than comforting, leading to a dissociative response.
Body Memory
Physical touch can act as a trigger, evoking memories or feelings from past experiences, especially if those experiences were negative or traumatic. Even in a current safe environment, the physical act of a hug might evoke feelings of past traumas, leading to a disconnect between your current feelings of safety and historical experiences of vulnerability.
Survival Mechanism
Dissociation can be a natural response to protect oneself from overwhelming emotions or sensations. It is a mental strategy for coping with stress, even in an otherwise safe situation. Your mind might use this mechanism temporarily to help you manage and process the overwhelming emotions from the session.
Unexpectedness and Self-Protection
Even if you gave your consent, the physical act of hugging might feel unexpected, leading to a disconnect from the present. Dissociation can be an instinctive response to preserve emotional health, especially when you feel vulnerable after a tough session. The mind might go into a dissociative state as a protective mechanism, shielding you from further emotional distress or vulnerability.
Discussing the Experience
It might be beneficial to bring up this experience with your therapist in your next session. They can help you explore these feelings and develop strategies to cope with dissociation effectively. Understanding the triggers and the reasons behind this response is key to managing it in the future.
Instance Analysis
Often, the hug might feel surprising, and the intensity of the session has left you emotionally drained. Dissociation can be a protective mechanism, shielding you from further emotional overwhelm. If you had not dissociated, you might have expressed deeper emotions, potentially leading to embarrassment or discomfort.
A hug can be a powerful tool of healing for many clients, mirroring the trust and care provided by a therapist. However, overanalyzing the incident might not be necessary. Instead, consider it a moment of support that aligns with your current emotional state. Reflect on the process and strategies to handle such situations in the future.