When Your Therapist is Away

One of my biggest learning curves when I started private practice was the expectation that I would be available 24/7, 365 days a year. Although the term can be cringeworthy, “therapists are human”; therefore, there are no exceptions, as we need breaks (annual leave) or at times may experience sickness or a bereavement.

Whilst it is important for us to “practice what we preach”, we also need to provide a little support and guidance in how to manage when we are off expected (or unexpected).

✅ Use healthy coping skills/mechanisms - A week or two without therapy can seem daunting BUT it is a fantastic time to practice coping on your own. If you are feeling stressed, practice meditation, breathing exercises, go for a walk, do any healthy activity that encourages relaxation and provides a sense of calm. By practicing healthy coping mechanisms and solving any problems will highlight any progress you've made and areas that may need some further help.

✅ Focus on What’s Working for You - It's simple to concentrate on the negative aspects of your life, but it's as critical to examine your abilities, strengths, and positive experiences. If you feel like it's all too much, write in your journal about how you're feeling and include any questions or concerns you have for your therapist when they get back.

✅ Speak with Your Support Network - Use the alternative resources available to you for support if you are aware that your therapist is out of the office. You can get comfort and encouragement from family, friends, support groups, other mental health experts, and even pets.

✅ Try Self-therapy - Plan a self-therapy session at your usual therapy time. Jot down the latest difficulties you've been investigating and consider how things have been going with your therapist since your last session. Look over your list and identify one skill you could use to address each issue, along with past suggestions from your therapist to help you identify and hone those talents. Take a note of everything and bring it with you to your next meeting.

✅ Seek Assistance If You're in Crisis - If a crisis occurs while your therapist is away, seek help as soon as possible. Reach out to:

The Samaritans -116 123
Black Country Mental Health -08000086516
Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health - 08009159292