The Courage to Change: Navigating the Transition to a New Therapist
I recently transitioned to working with a new therapist after four years of working with the same therapist. Four years!
Change is a Natural Part of Growth
My previous therapist and I did some wonderful work together. I truly would not be where I am today without having her as a part of my support system during the last four years. She supported me through so many key moments—deciding to go back to school during a global pandemic, the journey of grad school itself, graduating, opening my own practice, personal growth, and much more. I truly thought I would be with the same therapist until the end of time, no doubt about it! But one day I took a step back and realized my needs in the therapy space were changing and I actually needed a different approach/specialty during my current stage of life. Therapy is an evolving process, and it is natural for your needs to change over time. Just as life circumstances, goals, and self-awareness evolve, so too should your support system.
Recognizing When It’s Time to Transition
Signs it may be time to find a new therapist include feeling stagnant in sessions, needing a different therapeutic approach, or noticing a disconnection in communication. Sometimes, growth means outgrowing a dynamic that once worked for you.
For me, it was the realization that what I initially sought support for was no longer my primary concern. My circumstances had changed, and I recognized that my therapeutic needs were evolving. I was looking for a new perspective that aligned with where I am now. Therapy should grow with you, and sometimes, that means finding a therapist whose approach better supports the season of life you’re in.
Emotional Complexities of Leaving a Long-Term Therapist
Ending a therapeutic relationship can bring up a mix of emotions—grief for what was, guilt for moving on, and hope for what is next. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and understand that making a change is not a betrayal but step towards continued growth.
I can certainly attest to experiencing all of these emotions when I realized this was the next step for me. It was an interesting spot to be in because, as a therapist myself, I have been on the other end of this scenario many times. I know it’s normal for clients to feel nervous about ending services, but I still wrestled with it personally. While I was confident this was the right move, it was still hard! Change, even good change, comes with a sense of loss.
One thing that helped me navigate this transition was having an open conversation with my previous therapist. I wanted to honor the work we had done together and express my gratitude before moving forward. Our final session provided closure, allowing me to reflect on how much I had grown and step into this next phase with clarity.
Bravery in Making the Decision
Change can be uncomfortable, but it is often necessary for deeper healing. Aligning with Brave Beginnings’ mission, this decision requires courage and self-trust to prioritize what is best for my mental health journey. Choosing to move forward with a new therapist was not a sign of failure or disloyalty—it was an act of self-awareness and growth.
If you’ve been questioning whether your current therapeutic relationship is still serving you, I encourage you to reflect on what you need in this season of your life. Growth is brave, and sometimes, bravery means embracing change.
If you’ve ever felt uncertain about whether to continue with your current therapist or seek a new perspective, know that you’re not alone. Therapy is a journey that evolves alongside us, and it’s okay to reassess what you need. Growth isn’t about staying in the same place—it’s about finding the right support for where you are now.
As both a therapist and someone who has been on the client side, I want to normalize this process. If you’re reflecting on your own therapy journey and wondering what’s next, I encourage you to trust yourself in making the decision that feels best for you.
To your brave beginnings,
Alexis
