language use in therapy

I am planning to start therapy again in the summer when I have enough money/better finance.
Any therapy I had in the past have been in English, which is my second language. I am wondering if I should explore the idea of finding a therapist with who I could talk in my first language. Most of my problems have been related to my past when I was using my first language.
Anybody experienced therapy in their first and second language? Any differences? Pros and cons?

Well I only speak one language and so maybe I’m not the best person to ask, but I would say communication is more important than the language you use. If you can effectively communicate your feelings to your therapist I don’t think what language you use is important.

There was a woman in my group for whom English was not her first language. I asked her about this. If you are hurt in one language, can you be healed in another? Can you comfort your inner child when she speaks no English?

She was grateful for my concern, but she didn't feel she was at any disadvantage.

My husband's first language is not English and i know that subtle communication is more difficult. Also I've communicated in languages other than English and although I can convey information very well, more sensitive topics are difficult.

I think the most important thing in therapy is that you have a good relationship with your T. That, in itself, can overcome some of the barriers that language can erect.

That said, if i were you I would check out therapists who speak your native language. Don't choose them solely for the language advantage but maybe interview them first in your hunt for a new therapist.

If you don't resonate with any of them, don't stick with them only because of their sharing your native language, continue the hunt to find a therapist you think you CAN bond with.

Hi it does make a difference because of the cultural component. If you are First Nations, Québecoise or Innu it might be better to find someone who may be familiar with some of the issues you have had to deal with.
I find having mine in English makes me have to explain a great deal about the French people to my T. So do consider that. But the bottom line is to get one that's competent! And paid for by the province!
Velvet

From my experience, if you can find someone to communicate in your first language, it is easier. I have one client that even tho her English is pretty good, it's not her first language, and when it many things, she's more comfortable in her first language that I can't speak a lick of.

My therapist's first language was not English and I found some of the cultural things about my early childhood, I had to explain more thoroughly as it was not just the language but the whole background that is different. I can understand your interest in seeing a therapy who speaks your first language and would try that if I were in your position.