After 20 years in the therapy world, I’ve heard thousands of folks discuss their struggles with opening up to their provider, specifically about the therapy process itself. This is in direct contrast with my caseload as they are so encouraged to open up, it is not unusual for me to hear “I was mad at you all week!”. This transparency is vital to the counseling process, because…well…humans.
Every issue we deal with outside of the therapy session space will eventually show up within the therapy session space. This may include projections onto the therapist, transference from the therapist, triggers from session content, genuine frustrations with the process whether that is progress, feedback, the intervention model, or anything else.
The most important thing is your therapist’s willingness to have those discussions and your willingness as a client to bring it up.
There are many reasons you might be questioning your therapy experience:
Whatever the reason, it’s important to know these feelings are valid—and they don’t mean therapy has failed. They mean it’s time for a conversation.
At Virtual Therapy Clinic, we believe that open communication is the cornerstone of effective therapy. Schedule a client consultation today to revitalize your mental health journey.
Let's go!If you’re unhappy with therapy or considering quitting, your first step doesn’t have to be an exit. Instead, try these strategies to find clarity and explore solutions:
Your therapist is here to help, and that includes helping you express concerns about the treatment itself. Share how you’re feeling—whether it’s dissatisfaction, confusion, or simply wondering if there’s a better approach. A good therapist will listen without judgment and work with you to address your concerns.
A good therapist will listen without judgment and work with you to address your concerns.
Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. If the current method isn’t resonating with you, suggest trying something different. Whether it’s a new technique, a shift in focus, or simply slowing down the pace, small adjustments can make a big difference.
Sometimes, the best step forward is finding a better match. One advantage of being a client at a group practice can mean shifting to an alternative provider is a breeze. For solo practitioners, they often have a list of trusted professionals for referrals. A fresh perspective might be just what you need to reignite progress.
From adjusting session frequency to adding complementary resources like support groups or workshops, there are many ways to reframe your therapy experience.
Therapy is a partnership, and partnerships thrive on honest communication. Therapists are humans and need to be told if they are not getting it right. If something isn’t working, your therapist has to know. Your feedback allows the practice to tailor your experience and ensures you’re getting the support you need.
We encourage clients to think of therapy as a collaborative process. Sharing your thoughts—even the difficult ones—about the process itself helps you get the most out of your time, money, and effort.
It’s okay to think about stopping therapy. It may ultimately be the right choice for you. But before you make the decision, consider these questions:
If you’re not at a practice or with a provider where you feel you can start the conversation, we encourage you to reach out to our therapists here at Virtual Therapy Clinic who are specifically trained to help you participate in treatment while fostering open and honest communication about the process. We aim to make those discussions as comfortable and productive as possible.
Therapy is all about growth, and sometimes growth involves having hard conversations. At Virtual Therapy Clinic, we’re committed to creating a warm, welcoming space where you feel heard and supported—no matter what stage of the journey you’re in.
If you’re struggling with dissatisfaction or considering quitting therapy altogether, let’s talk. Schedule an initial session with our providers to explore what hasn't been working for you, what could work better, and how to move forward in a way that feels right for you.
These feelings are more common than you think—and the good news is, they’re an opportunity for growth and change. If you’re feeling stuck, unhappy, or just unsure about your therapy experience, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to start a conversation—it might just be the breakthrough or the refreshing experience you need.
As the Clinical Director at Virtual Therapy Clinic, I am happy to say that candid conversations with clients tend to be the most valuable, enjoyable, and productive sessions providing unbelievable insight into the process.
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