Therapy problem

Gael23

I’ve been seeing a therapist for the past while and it really helps but he needs to take a month to 6 weeks off to deal with some personal issues of his own.

I completely understand this but just not sure how to get myself through the next few weeks while he’s unavailable?

YellowLead

Is there another therapist at the same practice he can recommend for you?

lenan

They usually recommend someone local. If not post in regional pages here. The very best of luck

Gael23

He didn’t do that so I expect it’s something urgent on his part but maybe I could ask the centre he works for.

I wonder though would it be difficult starting over with someone new for that period of time?

Jequ0n

How frequently do you usually see the therapist? You could enquire at the centre if someone else will be available should you need some interim support.

Gael23

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119602130#Comment_119602130

Usually once a week but sometimes can miss a week if I’m tied up at work or something

Faith

I’d assume you’ve been learning skills throughout your work with him that you can apply to support yourself whilst he’s unavailable. A month is not a long time to go without therapy unless things are so severe that you’re under the care of adult mental health services. This can be a good opportunity to practice applying whatever you’ve learned with your therapist and work on being your own support while he’s away.

To see another therapist for 4-6 weeks would be very disruptive for you, probably more so than just waiting until your therapist is back. Again though, if you’re at risk of self harm, you should speak to either your therapist or your GP to discuss appropriate supports.

Gael23

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119602456#Comment_119602456

Think I’m going to do this.

Reluctant to go into detail to avoid identifying my therapist or myself. I feel like starting again with someone else after all the work we’ve done wouldn’t be any help to me unless I’m feeling really down.

As you say it could be a trial of how I manage without his support

Goodigal

I agree with Faith that if possible, try to put in place the mechanisms the therapist has given you to manage yourself week to week.

If you're really having a bad day while he's away, text Hello to 50808 to chat with a crisis volunteer who can listen to you and chat about how you're doing. We aren't trained therapists but it's a lovely supportive service for those struggling. Good luck.

Gael23

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119604449#Comment_119604449

Is that just texting over and back or do they call you?

Goodigal

Texting back and forth. We don't ring people unfortunately.