For most, therapy can be a great way to manage stressors, process emotions, or work through specific challenges. However, finding the right therapist is essential to get the most out of therapy sessions.
Sometimes, your relationship with your therapist may feel wrong and hinder your progress.
Key signs that it may be time to move on:
- You feel that your therapist does not understand you. If you experience that your therapist isn’t listening to you or doesn’t understand your struggles, it may be time to move on.
- Things are not getting better, and your mental health is not improving. Especially if you have been seeing your therapist for several months.
- If you are frequently frustrated or angry about what your therapists say or do, it may be time to consider a different therapist.
- If you ever feel that your therapist is inappropriate with you, such as making sexual advances, crossing physical boundaries, or engaging in unethical behavior, you should stop seeing them immediately.
- If you feel that you cannot afford the cost or are in a financial crisis,’ it may be time to look for alternative options, such as support groups or online therapy.
Most of the time, the above signs will just be a feeling you get. Yet, it indicates that you should take some time to reflect on what is missing in your current therapy sessions and what you want in a therapist. You have to determine what’s making you feel this way.
Below are some things to consider and questions you can ask yourself to see if it’s time to find a new therapist:
- Does my therapist deeply understand my experiences and emotions? If you regularly feel misunderstood or unheard, it may be time to seek a new therapist.
- Does your therapist respect your beliefs and cultural background? If you feel your therapist lacks sensitivity or understanding in these areas, consider looking for a more suitable therapist.
- Do you want someone warm and compassionate… or more direct? Different therapists operate by various styles of communication. Some people prefer an empathetic therapist, while others prefer someone who challenges them. If you are uncomfortable with your therapist’s style, it may be time to look for a new one.
There is only one problem. When you decide to change your therapist, it leaves you with a new question: How do you tell your therapist that you are changing therapists?
Below are a few steps that might help:
- Once you have decided it’s time to change therapists, it’s crucial to communicate this to your current therapist. Although it can be challenging, talking to your therapist can help you to gain closure and move forward.
- Schedule a session specifically for discussing this topic. Let your therapist know ahead of time that you want to discuss a matter that is unrelated to therapy so they aren’t caught off guard.
- Be honest and straightforward. Explain the reason for your decision compassionately and respectfully.
- Request your records from your therapist to give to your new therapist. It will ensure seamless continuity in your therapy.
- During your last session with your therapist, take the time to reflect on what you’ve learned, how far you’ve come, and what you need to give attention to next.
And don’t feel guilty about changing therapists and finding one who better suits your needs, style, or personality. Finding the right therapist can improve the overall impact of therapy on your well-being.