Why do people quit therapy?
Therapy is a powerful tool for individuals seeking to improve their mental and emotional well-being but not everyone knows how long therapy typically continues on for. The length of time someone goes to therapy can vary depending on their unique situation, what they are trying to process and grow in, as well as their specific needs. Generally, therapy can last anywhere from a few sessions to several years just depending on you and your needs/wants. Short-term therapy typically lasts around 12 sessions and is designed to address specific issues or concerns such as: life change, couples therapy, temporary problems, etc.
However, long-term therapy, on the other hand, can last for several years and is geared towards more complex issues such as chronic mental health conditions such as trauma, depression, grief, or deeply rooted emotional struggles. The therapeutic relationship that is built over time can help individuals make significant progress and achieve lasting change but there are times patients will make amazing progress in a very short period of time and this is why there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” mentality when it comes to therapy.
Ultimately, the decision of how long to attend therapy is up to the individual and their therapist but doesn’t have to be decided upon before you start therapy. The goal of therapy is to help individuals develop the skills and tools they need to improve their overall well-being, find healing and clarity from past traumas, as well a find joy and hope in their future.
There are various reasons why people quit therapy, despite its potential to improve their mental health and overall well-being, some of these reasons may include:
- Stigma: Unfortunately, there is still a significant amount of stigma surrounding mental health issues and seeking therapy, though in recent years we are seeing this begin to change. Some individuals may feel ashamed or embarrassed about seeking help, and this can make them reluctant to continue with therapy when confronted with their own pain or by change where they have wronged someone else. Pride can often get in the way of people finding greater healing.
- Lack of Connection: It is essential to find a therapist who is a good fit for you so that you can get the most out of your experience. If you do not feel comfortable or connected with your therapist, it can be challenging to continue with therapy and lead to people giving up before they really find traction with their mental health.
- Financial Constraints: Therapy can be expensive, and not everyone can afford it, especially for extended periods of time. Even with insurance coverage, co-pays and deductibles can add up, making it difficult for some individuals to continue with therapy but we encourage people to weigh the cost of truly caring for their mental health as it impacts all aspects of life.
- Time Commitment: Therapy requires a significant time commitment, and some people may find it difficult to balance it with other responsibilities such as work, school, or family life, so try to make sure you are ready to commit when starting.
- Unmet Expectations: Therapy is not a quick fix, and it can take time to see results so stay patient throughout the process. Some people may have unrealistic expectations about how quickly therapy will help them, and when they do not see immediate progress, they may become discouraged and give up rather than trust the process.
- Fear of Change: Therapy can be challenging and may require individuals to confront difficult emotions and make changes in their lives such as: forgiving, giving something up, or intentionally changing your perspective on life, which can be hard. Some people may be afraid of this process and may resist it, leading them to quit therapy before they find greater internal healing.
To conclude, it is important to remember that quitting therapy does not mean that you have failed, working towards a healthier you can be hard and challenging, so give yourself grace. It is a personal decision, and there are many reasons why someone may choose to stop therapy, but also remember you can always choose to start again. However, if you are considering quitting therapy, it may be helpful to discuss your concerns with your therapist and explore ways to address them before you decide to stop going to therapy. Ultimately, the decision to continue with therapy or not should be based on what is best for you and your mental health, so take the time you need, weigh the pros and cons, and remember you can always change your mind if something isn’t working for you.
