Changing Therapists: A Guide to Making the Switch
Therapy can be a deeply personal and transformative experience, but sometimes it just doesn’t work out with the therapist you’ve chosen. Whether it’s because you’re not seeing eye-to-eye on treatment goals, your therapist is not giving you the feedback or support you need, or you’re simply not finding the sessions productive, it’s important to remember that you have the freedom to change therapists if you feel it’s in your best interest. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process of changing therapists.
Recognizing When It’s Time to Change Therapists
The decision to change therapists can be difficult, but there are some signs that indicate it may be time to do so. If you find yourself experiencing any of the following, it may be worth considering whether to try a different therapist:
- You don’t feel heard or understood by your current therapist
- You don’t feel like you’re making progress or achieving your therapy goals
- You don’t feel comfortable with your current therapist
- You’re not seeing eye-to-eye on treatment goals
- Your therapist is not giving you the feedback or support you need
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s worth exploring whether switching therapists might help. Remember, therapy is supposed to be a cooperative process between you and your therapist, and if you’re not feeling that cooperative experience, something needs to change.
Considerations Before Making the Switch
Before you decide to make the switch, it’s important to take some time to reflect on your reasons for wanting to change therapists. Ask yourself questions like:
- What specific issues am I having with my current therapist?
- What goals do I hope to achieve in therapy?
- What qualities am I looking for in a new therapist?
Reflecting on these questions can help you identify what you’re looking for in a new therapist and ensure that you’re making the switch for the right reasons.
It’s also important to consider any potential barriers to switching therapists. For example, if you’re attending therapy through your employer’s employee assistance program, you may be limited in your options for changing therapists. Additionally, if you’re currently seeing a therapist who’s out of network or doesn’t accept insurance, you may need to consider the financial implications of changing to a new provider.
How to Switch Therapists
If you’ve decided to switch therapists, there are a few steps you can take to make the process as smooth as possible:
1. Communicate with your current therapist
The first step in switching therapists is to have an open and honest conversation with your current therapist about why you’re considering making the switch. Your therapist may be able to resolve some of the issues that led you to consider switching, or they may be able to refer you to another therapist who might be a better fit.
2. Research and choose a new therapist
Once you’ve decided to switch therapists, it’s time to start looking for a new provider who aligns with your therapy goals and needs. You can start by asking for recommendations from friends or family members, or by searching online for therapists who specialize in the area you’re interested in.
3. Schedule an initial consultation
Once you’ve identified a new therapist you’re interested in seeing, it’s a good idea to schedule an initial consultation to determine if you’re a good match. During this session, you can discuss your therapy goals and get a sense of the therapist’s approach and style before committing to ongoing sessions.
4. Notify your current therapist of the change
Once you’ve chosen a new therapist and scheduled your first session, it’s important to let your current therapist know that you’ve decided to make the switch. This not only helps ensure that there are no lapses in therapy, but it also gives your current therapist an opportunity to provide any necessary information or referrals to your new provider.
What to Expect From Your New Therapist
Starting therapy with a new provider can be a little nerve-wracking, but it’s important to remember that your new therapist is there to help you achieve your goals and provide the support and feedback you need. Some things to keep in mind as you start working with your new therapist include:
1. They may have a different approach or style
Every therapist has their own unique approach and style, so it’s possible that your new therapist may approach therapy differently than your previous provider. This can be a good thing, as it may provide you with a fresh perspective on your issues or a new set of tools to help you achieve your goals.
2. They may want to start from scratch
Your new therapist may want to start from scratch when it comes to your therapy goals and treatment plan. This doesn’t mean that the work you’ve done with your previous therapist wasn’t valuable or meaningful, but it does mean that your new therapist may want to get to know you and your situation before moving forward.
3. They may be better suited to meet your needs
If you’ve done your research and chosen a new therapist who aligns with your therapy goals and needs, there’s a good chance that they’ll be able to provide the support and feedback you need to achieve your goals. This can be an incredibly empowering and transformative experience, and it’s important to approach therapy with an open mind and a willingness to engage in the process.
Final Thoughts
Changing therapists can be a difficult and challenging decision, but it’s important to remember that therapy is supposed to be a cooperative process between you and your therapist. If you’re not feeling that sense of cooperation or progress, it may be time to explore your options for switching therapists. By reflecting on your reasons for wanting to make the switch, researching and choosing a new provider who aligns with your needs, and being open to the process, you can make the most of your therapy journey and achieve the goals you’ve set for yourself.
FAQs
FAQs About Changing Therapists
1. When is it appropriate to change therapists?
It is important to evaluate your therapy regularly to ensure that you are getting the help you need to meet your goals. If you feel that therapy is not helping you or that you are not making the progress you expected, it may be time to consider changing therapists. Additionally, if you don’t feel comfortable or safe with your current therapist, or if they are opposed to trying different approaches, it is advisable to switch therapists.
2. How do I go about changing therapists?
Changing therapists is similar to finding a therapist for the first time. Begin by considering what you need from a new therapist and what qualities and expertise are important to you. You can ask your current therapist for referrals or search for a therapist on your own using online databases or referrals from friends or family. When you have found a therapist, schedule a consultation or initial session to see if they are a good match for you.
3. Is it okay to change therapists multiple times?
Definitely! Switching therapists is common, and it is okay to work with several therapists over time, especially if your needs or goals change. Therapy is a personal process, and sometimes it takes time to identify what is most helpful for you. If you are feeling like you are stuck, switching therapists can provide you with a fresh perspective and tools to move forward.
References
1. DeAngelis, T. (2015). The ins and outs of therapist shopping. Monitor on Psychology, 46(8), 40.
2. Hatcher, R. L., & Lassiter, K. D. (2007). Initial therapist selection: An updated review of variables relevant to the process. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, 44(3), 191–203. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-3204.44.3.191
3. Levy, K. N., Meehan, K. B., Kelly, K. M., Reynoso, J. S., Weber, M., Clarkin, J. F., & Kernberg, O. F. (2006). Change in attachment patterns and reflective function in a randomized control trial of transference-focused psychotherapy for borderline personality disorder. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 74(6), 1027–1040. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.74.6.1027