Now is Not the Time to Quit Therapy
With so many of us struggling to adapt to this smaller, more isolated, and often less income-producing life, we might begin to look around and consider cutting out the ‘extras’ as a way to feel like we are succeeding at this stilted survival. I don’t know what constitutes ‘extra,’ or unnecessary for people. We all have different needs, different limitations, and different levels of privilege. But I would strongly suggest that now is not the time to quit therapy. Some of you may argue that you’re not seeing any improvement, or that you don’t have the energy for ONE MORE THING on the schedule right now, or that it’s getting hard to justify the expense when you’re not sure how steady your income will be in the next several months. Those are absolutely valid concerns. Those are exactly the concerns you can share with your therapist at your next session (or even in an email if that feels more comfortable). And, your therapist might tell you the following:
You might not be seeing any improvement because we’re all in survival mode. This might not be the time to be striving for big accomplishments, or even digging deep into past wounds. And that’s okay. This is the time your therapist can help you maintain connections, acknowledge your daily accomplishments, celebrate the small victories, and reframe your missteps. Your therapist can help you find motivation and inspiration when you are struggling. Your therapist can be a safe, objective target for venting, and a source of validation. Your therapist can help you understand what your brain is doing right now, and how to cope.
If your kids are in therapy right now and you’re worried you’re not seeing big changes, that can be frustrating. Especially when families are spending more time together than ever: People are dysregulated, behaviors seem to be increasing or at least more frequently witnessed, now that we’re all stuck at home with each other. Even though you might be discouraged because you want that bothersome behavior to STOP RIGHT NOW and it isn’t, your kid is getting more than behavior management and coping strategies out of their sessions. Kids stuck at home can be feeling anxious and lonely. No matter the age, weekly therapy sessions can be a positive, steady part of their routine. Online counseling sessions can still provide a separate space for kids to ‘be somewhere else,’ with someone else for a bit. Having that designated time, being able to be heard and supported outside of their family, can give kids something to look forward to each week. Weekly sessions can help boost morale, manage anxiety, improve communication skills, and build self-esteem.
Lastly, if you are concerned about the financial commitment during this uncertain time, you are not alone. Definitely share this concern with your therapist. For my practice, if my sliding scale spots are already full, I am still willing to work with clients who are experiencing financial hardship. For instance, if time AND money is a concern, we can schedule half sessions via telephone on a regular basis so clients can continue to receive support without as much worry about their bank account or taking too much time away from their family.
Most therapists I know are creative, flexible people who recognize that now is not the time to quit therapy. In fact, many people are deciding that now is the time to start. I’ve been told by many clients that adding or keeping therapy on the schedule has helped life feel more regulated and manageable. I, and many of my mental health colleagues, are constantly thinking of ways to make counseling affordable and accessible to as many people as possible, especially during this pandemic. Whether you’re sheltering in place alone, or stuck inside with your family who looks to you to manage EVERYTHING, weekly therapy sessions give you a special, supported space to combat overwhelm and isolation. It’s not an ‘extra,’ it’s part of your survival toolbox.
If you are in Texas and considering getting some extra support right now, let’s talk.