Critical Secret Disclosure in Psychotherapy With Korean Clients

Abstract

Korean clients who had completed counseling in Korea and viewed the therapy as successful were interviewed about critical secret disclosure during their therapy. In-depth interviews along with grounded theory-informed analyses in a methodological hermeneutic framework revealed that many Korean clients reported that despite initial fears and needing to test their counselors, sharing their secrets was a powerful experience that deepened their connection to their counselor, facilitated positive life changes, and enhanced their relationships with others. We present a hierarchy of categories that explains the meaning and process of critical secret disclosure in therapy. The results are discussed in the context of Korean culture and how these findings can inform therapy with Korean clients.