Starting therapy is a big step. It takes courage to open up to someone new and trust them with our deepest thoughts and feelings. We all hope to find a therapist who feels like the right match—someone who gets us, supports us, and helps us grow.
But not every therapist is going to be the right fit for every person. And in some cases, a therapist’s behavior or approach might actually be harmful to our well-being and progress.
That’s why I want to talk about some warning signs of a bad therapist. These are things we might notice in our sessions or in our overall progress that can tell us something’s not quite right. Some of these red flags might be subtle, while others are more glaring. But all of them are worth paying attention to and addressing sooner rather than later.
Table of Contents
- They Make You Feel Judged
- They’re Frequently Late or Cancel Appointments
- They Share Too Much About Their Own Problems
- Their Advice Feels Generic or Unhelpful
- They Try to Push Their Own Beliefs on You
- They Breach Confidentiality (Even When Unnecessary)
- They Cross Personal Boundaries
- They Engage in Dual Relationships
- They Don’t Seem to Listen or Remember Important Details
- They Lack Basic Knowledge About Mental Health Issues
- They Use Outdated or Unproven Methods
- They Don’t Talk About the Model They Are Using With You in Therapy
- They Fail to Adapt Their Approach Based on Your Needs
- They Don’t Set Clear Goals or Track Progress
- You Feel Worse After Sessions
- They Seem Disinterested During the Sessions
- They Pressure You to Make Certain Decisions
- Your Therapist Is Not Culturally Sensitive
- Your Therapist Just Doesn’t Get You
- Your Therapist Is Too Passive
- They Do Something That’s Illegal
- Makes Unwanted Physical Contact
- Rushing a Diagnosis or Overdiagnosing
- Becoming Overly Defensive About Feedback
- Your Therapist Is Constantly Buried in Notes
- Going to Therapy Feels Stressful
- Your Therapist Ended Therapy Badly
- You Just Don’t Feel “Right”
- Your Therapist Doesn’t Specialize in Your Issue
- They Skip Building Rapport
- They Talk in Technical or Academic Language
- They Pressure You to Have a Lot of Sessions
- They Feel and Sound Like They’re Expert in Everything
- Final Thoughts
They Make You Feel Judged
Therapy should be a safe space where you feel comfortable opening up without fear of judgment. If your therapist makes comments that leave you feeling criticized, ashamed, or misunderstood, it’s a major red flag.
Remember, a good therapist will create an environment of acceptance and understanding, even if they don’t always agree with your decisions. If you find yourself walking on eggshells around your therapist or censoring what you share, it’s time to consider finding someone who creates a more supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere.
If you consistently feel judged or uncomfortable with your therapist’s attitude, don’t ignore it. Therapy is an investment in your well-being, and you deserve to feel respected and accepted throughout the process.
They’re Frequently Late or Cancel Appointments
We all have busy lives, and occasional scheduling conflicts are understandable. However, if your therapist is consistently late to your sessions or cancels frequently, it can disrupt the therapeutic process and hinder your progress.
Imagine you’re looking forward to your therapy session all week, only to have it canceled at the last minute. This can be frustrating and disheartening, leaving you feeling unimportant and neglected.
A reliable therapist understands the importance of consistency and will prioritize your appointments. They’ll communicate any changes promptly and professionally, demonstrating their commitment to your well-being.
While therapists are human and may occasionally share personal anecdotes to connect with you or illustrate a point, the focus of therapy should always be on you and your needs.
A good therapist knows how to maintain appropriate boundaries and will keep the focus on your therapeutic goals. They’ll use their expertise to guide you, not burden you with their own issues.
Also, if your therapist tells you a lot about their own struggles, it might make you feel like you have to help them with their problems. If you find yourself spending a lot of time listening to your therapist’s issues instead of talking about your own, it’s probably time to look for a therapist who can focus more on you.
Their Advice Feels Generic or Unhelpful
You seek therapy to gain insights and tools to navigate life’s challenges. If your therapist’s advice feels too general or doesn’t really help you, it can be frustrating and make you wonder if therapy is worth it.
Effective therapy involves a collaborative exploration of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Your therapist should work with you to develop personalized strategies and solutions that address your specific challenges.
If you find yourself thinking, “That advice wouldn’t work for me,” or feeling like your therapist doesn’t truly grasp your situation, it might be time to seek a more attuned and insightful therapeutic approach.
They Try to Push Their Own Beliefs on You
A therapeutic setting should be a neutral space where your values and beliefs are respected. If you find that your therapist is pushing their personal beliefs—whether they be religious, cultural, political, or social—onto you, it can create an uncomfortable environment that is not conducive to growth or healing.
- The therapist regularly brings up their personal ideologies during sessions.
- They make assumptions based on their own beliefs rather than your reported experiences.
- Dismissal or judgment of your beliefs if they differ from the therapist’s.
A good therapist respects your autonomy and supports you in making your own informed decisions. Therapy is about empowering you to find your own path, not about conforming to someone else’s ideals.
They Breach Confidentiality (Even When Unnecessary)
Confidentiality is one of the most important parts of the therapist-client relationship. If your therapist shares your information without your permission or a valid reason, it’s a major violation of your trust.
This could include:
- Telling other people about your therapy sessions.
- Leaving your files where others can see them.
- Even gossiping about you with colleagues.
A breach of confidentiality can make you feel exposed, betrayed, and unsafe. It can damage your ability to open up in therapy and get the help you need. It’s also unethical and goes against the basic principles of a therapist’s job.
Valid Reasons for Breach of Confidentiality
While therapists prioritize confidentiality, there are specific situations where they may be legally or ethically obligated to disclose information:
- Risk of Harm: If the client poses an immediate danger to themself or another person, the therapist may need to take action to ensure safety, such as contacting emergency services or notifying potential victims.
- Legal Requirements: Occasionally, therapists may be required by law to disclose certain information, for example, during a legal proceeding.
- Payment for Services: In certain cases, therapists may need to disclose limited information for billing purposes or to collect payment for their services.
- Coordinated Care: To facilitate coordinated care among multiple healthcare providers involved in your treatment, therapists may need to share relevant information with your consent.
Note: It’s important to note that even in these situations, a therapist should only share the minimum amount of information necessary to ensure safety or comply with legal requirements. They should also make every effort to discuss these instances with you early on in the therapy.
They Cross Personal Boundaries
A good therapist will always maintain clear, professional boundaries in their relationship with you. This means they won’t try to be your friend, ask you for favors, or make you feel uncomfortable in any way.
If your therapist does things like:
- Asking you to spend time with them outside of therapy sessions.
- Touching you in a way that feels inappropriate or unwanted.
- Sharing too many personal details about their own life.
- Trying to connect with you on social media.
Always remember, you should feel safe and respected during therapy. If your boundaries are not being respected, it might be time to discuss this with your therapist or find someone who better understands and maintains these important limits.
They Engage in Dual Relationships
In therapy, a dual relationship happens when your therapist has another role in your life besides being your therapist. For example, if your therapist is also your friend, family member, coworker, or business partner, that’s a dual relationship.
Dual relationships can be tricky because they can make it hard for your therapist to be objective and focus solely on your needs. They might let their personal feelings influence how they treat you in therapy. They might also struggle to keep your therapy sessions confidential if you have other interactions outside of the office.
Most therapists try to avoid dual relationships whenever possible. If they realize they have a connection to you that could cause a conflict of interest, they’ll usually refer you to another therapist.
It’s not always possible to avoid all dual relationships, especially in small communities where everyone knows each other. However, your therapist should always be transparent about any potential conflicts and work with you to create clear boundaries.
They Don’t Seem to Listen or Remember Important Details
If your therapist often forgets what you’ve told them in previous sessions or doesn’t seem to pay attention when you’re talking, it can be disheartening.
Good listening is key in therapy. It helps make sure the therapist fully understands your thoughts and feelings, which is crucial for helping you move forward.
Here are a few signs that your therapist might not be actively listening:
- They frequently interrupt you or change the subject.
- They seem distracted or preoccupied during sessions.
- They ask repetitive questions or forget things you’ve told them before.
- They don’t seem to understand your concerns or perspectives.
Everyone has moments of forgetfulness or distraction, and it’s okay if your therapist occasionally needs a reminder about something you’ve discussed. But if it happens all the time, or if your therapist doesn’t seem to be making an effort to understand your story, it’s a sign that they might not be fully invested in your therapy.
They Lack Basic Knowledge About Mental Health Issues
While therapists don’t have all the answers, they should have a solid foundation of knowledge about mental health issues, including common diagnoses, treatment modalities, and evidence-based practices.
For example, if you’re struggling with anxiety, your therapist should be familiar with the different types of anxiety disorders, their symptoms, and effective treatment approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness techniques.
If you suspect that your therapist lacks the necessary knowledge to address your specific needs, don’t hesitate to ask about their experience and qualifications in treating your concerns. You can also seek a second opinion from another mental health professional to ensure you’re receiving accurate information and appropriate care.
They Use Outdated or Unproven Methods
It’s also important for therapists to keep up-to-date with the latest and most effective ways of helping people. Unfortunately, some therapists might still use old methods that may not work well or could even be harmful.
Here are a few signs of outdated methods:
- They keep using techniques that most experts don’t use anymore.
- They offer treatments that have no proof of working.
- They don’t use new methods that could help better.
Sometimes, therapists stick to old ways because they haven’t learned new approaches, or they might resist changing their methods. It’s really important for your therapist to keep learning and improving their skills. This helps make sure you’re getting the best help possible.
They Don’t Talk About the Model They Are Using With You in Therapy
There are many different approaches to therapy, each with its own theories, techniques, and philosophies. Some common models include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies, just to name a few.
A good therapist will be transparent about the model or models they use in their work. They should explain the basic principles of their approach, how it typically works, and why they think it might be helpful for your specific needs and goals.
If your therapist doesn’t discuss their therapeutic model with you, it can leave you feeling in the dark about what’s happening in your sessions. You might not understand the reasoning behind certain interventions or exercises, or how they’re meant to help you progress.
1. Ask your therapist what model they use.
Most people don't ask this question when they see a therapist. Most likely because they are not aware that there are different models about how people change. They might have heard of psycho-analysis and maybe even behavior therapy but probably not much more.
Don't accept "I am eclectic" as an answer—"eclectic" means "I don't know." And don't accept an activity as a model. Play therapy is an activity. Art therapy is an activity.
2. Ask for proof of competency.
Your therapist should not only be able to tell you what model they use but show you a document/certificate that shows they have been trained in that model. You don't want someone who read about some model (and it's accompanying technique) over the weekend and experimenting with it on you.
3. Ask your therapist if the model they are planning to use in your therapy is proven effective
For example, interpersonal psychotherapy (or IPT) has been proven more effective than Rational Emotive Behavior therapy in treating depression.
If you are considering therapy, then these three questions will help you sort out the good therapists from the bad therapists. If you are currently in therapy, ask these questions at your next session.
— G. Scott Graham, MS, LADC | Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor | Psychotherapist | Business Coach, True Azimuth, LLC | Author, Ten Things You Need to Know About Coaching Before You Get a Coach
They Fail to Adapt Their Approach Based on Your Needs
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. A skilled therapist understands that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to treatment. They’ll be flexible and willing to adapt their methods based on your specific needs, preferences, and progress.
For instance:
- If you’re not comfortable with a particular therapeutic technique, your therapist should be open to exploring alternative approaches that better suit you.
- If you’re not seeing progress with the current treatment plan, your therapist should be willing to reassess and make adjustments as needed.
A rigid or inflexible therapist who insists on using the same methods regardless of your individual needs may not be the best fit for you. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist should be your partner in finding the most effective path toward healing and growth.
They Don’t Set Clear Goals or Track Progress
Therapy should be a goal-oriented process. At the beginning of your therapeutic journey, you and your therapist should work together to establish clear goals for what you hope to achieve through therapy. These goals provide direction and a framework for measuring progress along the way.
Without clear goals, it can be difficult to assess whether therapy is effective or if you’re moving in the right direction. Regularly tracking progress allows you and your therapist to identify what’s working well and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
If your therapist doesn’t seem interested in setting goals or tracking progress, it could be a sign that they lack a structured approach to treatment or are not fully invested in your success.
You Feel Worse After Sessions
While it’s normal to experience a range of emotions during therapy, including sadness, anger, or frustration, you should generally feel better over time as you work through your challenges.
However, if you consistently feel worse after therapy sessions, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. Perhaps the therapist’s approach isn’t a good fit for you, or maybe there are underlying issues in the therapeutic relationship that need to be addressed.
It’s important to pay attention to how you feel before, during, and after therapy sessions. If you notice a pattern of feeling emotionally drained, anxious, or hopeless after therapy, don’t ignore it. Talk to your therapist about your concerns and explore possible reasons why you might be feeling worse.
They Seem Disinterested During the Sessions
A good therapist is fully present and engaged in the therapeutic process. They’ll show genuine interest in your experiences, actively listen to you, and provide thoughtful feedback and support.
If your therapist appears disinterested, distracted, or bored during your sessions, it can make you feel unimportant and hinder the therapeutic alliance.
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Some signs that your therapist might not be paying attention include:
- They keep looking at the clock or seem like they want to end the session early.
- They yawn, fidget, or have a spaced-out look on their face.
- They don’t ask questions or seem curious about what you’re saying.
- They give generic, robotic responses that don’t really fit your situation.
Of course, therapists are people, too, and everyone has bad days. But if you often feel like your therapist is just going through the motions and not really there with you, that’s a problem.
They Pressure You to Make Certain Decisions
Therapy is meant to be a place where you feel free to make your own choices. If your therapist is pushing you to decide something specific, that’s not a good sign. This kind of pressure can make you feel less in control of your own life and may lead you to make choices that aren’t really right for you.
For example, if you’re thinking about a big life change like a new job or ending a relationship, your therapist should help you think things through—not tell you what to do. They should help you clarify your thoughts, not dictate your decisions.
Your Therapist Is Not Culturally Sensitive
Being aware of and respecting different cultures is super important for good therapy. Your therapist should understand and appreciate your cultural background, values, and beliefs. They should also get how your cultural identity shapes your experiences and how you see the world.
For example, it’s not okay if your therapist:
- Ignores how culture affects your mental health: Like dismissing the impact of discrimination or the stress of adapting to a new culture.
- Uses stereotypes about your culture: This could be assuming things about your beliefs, values, or behaviors just because of your background.
- Doesn’t adjust their approach to fit your cultural needs: This might mean using techniques that aren’t appropriate or relevant to your culture.
If a therapist isn’t tuned in to your cultural needs, you might feel like you have to explain or defend your background more than talking about your personal issues. A good therapist will make an effort to understand and respect your cultural background as a part of your therapy.
Your Therapist Just Doesn’t Get You
For therapy to work, you need to feel like your therapist really understands and gets you. Even if they have the right training and use the right methods, if there’s no real connection, therapy can feel empty and unhelpful.
If you find yourself always having to explain yourself or feel like your therapist just doesn’t get what you’re going through, that’s frustrating. It’s hard to open up and do deep work with someone who doesn’t seem to be on the same page as you.
There can be many reasons why a therapist might not get you.
- Maybe your personalities just don’t click.
- Maybe they don’t have much experience with the problems you’re dealing with.
- Maybe you have different communication styles or ways of seeing the world that make it hard to relate to each other.
You might need to try a few different therapists before you find one who really gets you, and that’s totally normal. Don’t settle for a therapist who doesn’t make you feel seen and supported in the ways you need.
Your Therapist Is Too Passive
Therapy is a two-way street. While your therapist shouldn’t control the conversation, they also shouldn’t just sit back and listen without offering any guidance or feedback.
If your therapist seems too passive, just listening and not engaging much or offering feedback, it can make your sessions feel unproductive. You might leave feeling like you haven’t gained much, as if you were just talking to yourself.
If you constantly feel like you’re doing all the talking without getting any insights or guidance in return, it might be good to talk to your therapist about making sessions more interactive. If nothing changes, consider finding someone who can offer a more balanced and active approach.
They Do Something That’s Illegal
This one is pretty straightforward. If your therapist does anything illegal, it’s a major red flag and a clear violation of professional ethics.
Some examples of illegal behavior from a therapist might include:
- Sharing your private information without a valid reason.
- Touching you in a sexual or inappropriate way.
- Asking you to do something illegal or harmful.
- Practicing without a valid license or after their license has been revoked.
If you suspect your therapist is engaging in illegal behavior, it’s important to report it to the appropriate authorities. You have the right to feel safe and protected during therapy, and illegal activity is never acceptable.
Makes Unwanted Physical Contact
Physical contact in therapy should be very limited and always appropriate. Any kind of unwanted physical contact from a therapist is completely unacceptable and can be classified as professional misconduct.
This includes things like:
- Hugging you without asking or after you’ve said “no.”
- Touching your hand, leg, or face in a way that feels too intimate.
- Making sexual comments or jokes.
- Touching you in a sexual way or asking for sexual contact.
- Invading your personal space in a way that makes you feel uneasy.
If your therapist makes unwanted physical contact, it’s important to speak up and set clear boundaries. You can say something like, “I’m not comfortable with hugging,” or “Please don’t touch me without asking first.”
Remember, you have the right to say “NO” to any form of touch that you don’t want, and a good therapist will respect your boundaries.
Rushing a Diagnosis or Overdiagnosing
A good therapist will take time to really get to know you and your symptoms before giving you a diagnosis. They should explain what the diagnosis means and work with you to come up with a treatment plan that fits your needs.
If your therapist seems too quick to give you a diagnosis, especially in the first few sessions, that’s a warning sign. They might be jumping to conclusions without really understanding your full situation. Or they might be trying to fit you into a certain category or treatment approach without considering other options.
On the flip side, some therapists might give you too many diagnoses or see every problem as a sign of a mental disorder. This can be harmful and it can make you feel like there’s something seriously wrong with you, even if your symptoms are actually pretty normal or manageable.
A good therapist will be careful and thorough in their diagnostic process. They’ll ask a lot of questions, listen to your experiences, and consider different possibilities before settling on a diagnosis. They’ll also be open to reassessing or adjusting the diagnosis as needed over time.
Becoming Overly Defensive About Feedback
If your therapist becomes overly defensive or upset when you provide feedback or express dissatisfaction with some aspect of your therapy, it’s a warning sign. Their reaction can create an uncomfortable therapy environment and may discourage you from speaking openly.
If your therapist consistently gets defensive or dismissive when you try to give feedback, it might be a sign that they’re not the right match for you. Look for a therapist who sees your input as valuable and is committed to creating a therapy experience that truly works for you.
Your Therapist Is Constantly Buried in Notes
Taking notes during therapy sessions is a common and often helpful practice. It allows therapists to keep track of important details, themes, and progress over time.
However, therapy is about connection and building a relationship. If your therapist is constantly looking down at their notepad or typing on their laptop, it can disrupt the flow of conversation and make it difficult to feel heard and understood.
A good therapist will find a balance between taking notes and maintaining eye contact and engagement with you. They’ll use their notes as a tool to support the therapeutic process, not as a distraction from it.
Going to Therapy Feels Stressful
Therapy isn’t always easy—it’s normal to feel a little nervous or uncomfortable at times. But overall, therapy should feel like a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself and focus on your growth and healing.
If you find yourself dreading therapy sessions or feeling increasingly stressed about going, it’s important to explore the reasons behind these feelings. It could be a sign that you’re not comfortable with your therapist, that the therapeutic approach isn’t a good fit for you, or that there are external factors contributing to your stress.
If you’re feeling this way, it’s important to discuss your feelings with your therapist. Sometimes, adjustments can be made to make the sessions more comfortable for you. However, if the stress continues, it might be a sign to consider finding a new therapist who makes you feel more at ease.
Your Therapist Ended Therapy Badly
The way therapy ends is almost as important as how it begins. Ending therapy should be a process that feels natural and supportive, giving you a sense of closure and readiness to move forward.
If your therapy ended abruptly or in a way that left you feeling unsettled or unsupported, this could be a red flag about your therapist’s professionalism.
- If they suddenly tell you they can no longer see you without a clear reason
- If they refer you to another provider without discussing it with you first
- If they seem cold, uninterested, or eager to be done with you in your final sessions
- If they don’t offer any closure or support around the ending
A poorly handled termination can leave you feeling abandoned, rejected, or even traumatized. It can disrupt your progress and make it harder to trust future therapists.
You Just Don’t Feel “Right”
Sometimes, you might not be able to pinpoint exactly what’s wrong, but you just feel that something isn’t right. Trust your intuition and pay attention to these subtle cues. This could be a general sense of discomfort, uneasiness, or feeling that you’re not making the progress you hoped for.
Remember, it’s your therapy and your mental health. You have every right to seek out a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, supportive, and productive for you. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and advocate for the kind of care that truly helps you heal and grow.
Your Therapist Doesn’t Specialize in Your Issue
Therapists, like doctors, often specialize in specific areas of mental health. While many therapists have a general practice, some focus on particular issues like trauma, addiction, eating disorders, or family therapy. If you’re facing a specific challenge, it’s important to find a therapist who has expertise in that area.
For instance, if you’re struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), working with a therapist who specializes in trauma can make a significant difference in your recovery journey. They’ll have a deeper understanding of the complexities of trauma and the most effective treatment approaches.
Working with a therapist who doesn’t have the necessary expertise in your specific issue might lead to ineffective treatment or even exacerbate your problems. Don’t hesitate to ask your therapist about their areas of specialization and seek a referral if needed.
They Skip Building Rapport
Building a strong rapport is one of the first steps in effective therapy. It involves creating a bond of trust and mutual respect between you and your therapist.
If your therapist rushes into treatment without taking the time to understand you and your background, or if they don’t show interest in creating a comfortable environment, it could hinder your progress. This might make you feel like just another case or like your therapist isn’t truly invested in your well-being.
"You can have the best skills as a therapist around, but if you can't connect with your client, you will not be effective. The strength of the relationship between a client and a therapist is one of the most predictive elements of a good outcome."
— Traci W. Pirri, MSW, LCSW-S | Owner & Director, Hope of the Journey
They Talk in Technical or Academic Language
Therapy should be a safe and accessible space for everyone, regardless of their background or education level. While therapists might use some technical terms related to mental health, they should avoid overwhelming you with jargon or complex academic language that you don’t understand.
Using overly technical language can create a barrier to communication and make you feel confused or intimidated. It’s important for your therapist to explain things in a clear and understandable way so that you can actively participate in your therapy and make informed decisions about your treatment.
They Pressure You to Have a Lot of Sessions
The frequency and duration of therapy vary depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people might benefit from weekly sessions, while others might need more or less frequent appointments. A good therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your specific situation and preferences.
If your therapist pressures you to attend more sessions than you’re comfortable with or financially able to afford, it’s a red flag. It’s important to feel empowered to make decisions about your therapy and to have open and honest conversations with your therapist about your needs and limitations.
"Sure, it takes a few sessions to get a sense of how well you’ll work together. And change does take time, honestly. But the number and frequency of sessions should be a discussion between you and the therapist that you return to from time to time, not a mandate for a massive long-term investment. It’s always your choice."
— Rev. Connie L. Habash, MA, LMFT | Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Awakening Self | Yoga Teacher | Interfaith Minister | Author, Awakening from Anxiety
They Feel and Sound Like They’re Expert in Everything
While therapists are trained professionals with expertise in mental health, it’s important for them to acknowledge their limitations and be open to learning and growing. A good therapist doesn’t pretend to have all the answers or claim to be an expert in every area of life.
A humble and open-minded therapist is more likely to provide effective treatment and create a safe space for you to explore your challenges without judgment.
What should I do if I notice some of these warning signs in my therapist?
If you’re noticing warning signs, address your concerns with your therapist directly. Good therapists should be open to feedback and willing to discuss any issues you may have. If the problems persist or you feel uncomfortable, it’s within your rights to seek a different therapist.
Is it okay to switch therapists if I’m not feeling comfortable with my current one?
Yes, it’s perfectly okay to switch therapists if you’re not comfortable. Your comfort and trust in your therapist are crucial to the success of your therapy. It’s important to work with someone who makes you feel safe and heard.
What if I’m not sure if my therapist’s behavior is a warning sign or not?
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it might be worth exploring why you feel this way. Sometimes, discussing your concerns with a trusted friend or another mental health professional can provide clarity and help you decide how to proceed.
How long should I give a therapist before deciding if they’re a good fit?
There’s no set time frame, but typically, you should start to feel a level of comfort and trust with your therapist within the first few sessions. If, after several sessions, you feel like the fit isn’t right, it’s reasonable to consider looking for someone better suited to your needs.
What if I don’t feel like I’m making progress with my therapist, but I don’t notice any warning signs?
Talk openly with your therapist about your concerns regarding progress. Sometimes, an adjustment in treatment approach can make a big difference. If you still don’t see improvement, seeking a second opinion might be beneficial to ensure you get the help you need.
How can I find a therapist who is a good fit for me?
Finding the right therapist can involve some research. Look for therapists who specialize in the issues you’re experiencing, check their credentials, and read reviews from other clients if available.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to potential therapists to ask about their approach and whether they offer an initial consultation where you can get a feel for how they work.
Final Thoughts
It takes courage to start therapy, so it can be really disappointing if you end up with a therapist who isn’t a good match. But hey, don’t let that discourage you from taking care of yourself!
a bad therapy experience is not your fault. It doesn’t mean that all therapists are bad or that therapy can’t help you. There are so many kind and skilled therapists out there who are ready to support you in the way you need.
Don’t give up on finding the right fit—keep advocating for yourself, and trust that you deserve a therapist who will walk alongside you with compassion and respect.