How To Tell If Your Therapist Doesn’t Like You
Your therapist might not like you, and that’s okay – but it’s important to know the signs!
Imagine going to a doctor who rolled their eyes every time you described your symptoms.
Pretty awful, right?
Well, therapy can feel the same way if your therapist isn’t vibing with you.
I’ve been there, folks.
One time, I had a therapist who seemed more interested in her coffee mug than my life story.
It felt like talking to a very expensive brick wall.
Not fun, and definitely not helpful!
Did you know that about 20% of people who start therapy drop out before it can help them?
That’s one in five people!
And while there are many reasons for this, feeling disconnected from your therapist is a big one.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to spot the red flags that your therapist might not be your biggest fan.
We’ll explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that it might be time to find a new mental health buddy.
Whether you’re a therapy newbie or a seasoned couch veteran, these tips could be a game-changer for your mental health journey.
So, grab a comfy seat (maybe not a therapist’s couch just yet) and let’s dive into the world of therapist-client relationships.
By the end of this read, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to ensure your therapy sessions are as helpful and positive as possible.
Trust me, your future, mentally-healthier self will thank you!
When Your Therapist’s Ears Go on Vacation
Let’s start with the biggie: your therapist seems to have misplaced their listening ears.
Ouch!
Picture this: you’re pouring your heart out about your deepest fears, and your therapist is staring out the window like they’re waiting for a bus.
Not cool, right?
The whole point of therapy is to have someone really hear you out.
It’s like going to a concert where the musician isn’t playing – what’s the point?
I once had a therapist who kept forgetting key details about my life.
It was like starting from scratch every session.
Talk about frustrating!
If you feel like you’re talking to a wall, it might be a sign that your therapist isn’t fully present.
And let’s face it, if they’re not listening, how can they help?
Remember, a good therapist should be like a sponge, soaking up every word you say.
If yours seems more like a brick, it might be time to find a new emotional sounding board.
When Your Therapist Turns into Judge Judy
Alright, next up on our “Therapist Doesn’t Like Me” bingo card: judgment city!
Therapy should be a judgment-free zone, like a gym but for your emotions.
If your therapist is giving you more side-eye than support, Houston, we have a problem.
Here’s the deal: therapists are human too.
They might have opinions, but a good therapist keeps those opinions locked up tighter than Fort Knox.
I once had a therapist who visibly cringed when I talked about my dating life.
It made me feel about two inches tall and not very excited to share anything else.
If you’re feeling shame spirals after therapy, that’s a red flag bigger than a parade banner.
Your therapist should be warm and inviting, not cold and judgy.
It’s like the difference between a hug and a handshake – both are greetings, but one feels a whole lot better.
Remember, you’re there to work on yourself, not to win your therapist’s approval.
If you feel like you’re auditioning for their good graces, it might be time to find a new audience.
The Great Therapist Dismissal
Next up in our therapy horror show: the dismissive therapist.
This is like ordering a full meal and getting served a single cracker.
If your therapist is constantly brushing off your concerns or making you feel like your problems aren’t “real” problems, that’s a big no-no.
It’s like going to a mechanic who tells you your car isn’t really broken, it just likes to make funny noises.
I once shared a deep fear with a therapist, and they literally said, “Oh, that’s nothing.”
Talk about feeling small!
Your experiences are valid, full stop.
A good therapist should treat your concerns with the same care and attention as a chef preparing a five-star meal.
If yours is treating your issues like fast food, it might be time to find a new emotional restaurant.
Remember, therapy is about you.
If you feel disrespected or dismissed, that’s not just a sign they might not like you – it’s a sign they’re not doing their job properly.
The Fake Therapist Show
Let’s talk about authenticity, folks.
Your therapist should be as real as a no-filter selfie, not a photoshopped magazine cover.
If you feel like your therapist is putting on a show, complete with fake smiles and rehearsed responses, that’s a problem.
It’s like going to a concert and realizing the band is lip-syncing – disappointing and not what you paid for.
I once had a therapist who gave the exact same advice for every problem.
It was like talking to a very expensive Magic 8 Ball.
Authenticity in therapy is crucial.
It’s how you build trust and make real progress.
If your therapist feels as genuine as a three-dollar bill, it might be time to find someone who’s more real.
Remember, therapy is about connection.
If you can’t connect with your therapist because they’re hiding behind a professional facade, how can you expect to make real progress?
The Disappearing Therapist Act
Now, let’s talk about reliability.
Your therapist should be as dependable as the sun rising in the east, not as unpredictable as a cat’s mood.
If your therapist is constantly canceling appointments or showing up late, that’s a red flag waving so hard it might fly away.
It’s like having a friend who always bails on plans at the last minute – frustrating and not very supportive.
I once had a therapist who rescheduled three sessions in a row.
By the fourth week, I felt like I was playing therapy roulette.
Sure, life happens.
Therapists are human too.
But if unreliability becomes a pattern, it might be a sign that they’re not fully committed to your treatment – or worse, that they’re avoiding you.
Remember, consistency is key in therapy.
If your therapist is more elusive than Bigfoot, it might be time to track down a new mental health partner.
The Therapy Debate Club
Last but not least, let’s chat about disagreements.
Therapy isn’t always smooth sailing, but it shouldn’t feel like you’re constantly swimming against the tide.
If you and your therapist are butting heads more often than not, that’s a problem.
It’s like going to a dance class where you and the instructor are always stepping on each other’s toes.
I once had a therapist who argued with me about my own feelings.
It was like trying to convince someone that I was hungry – frustrating and pointless.
Disagreements can happen, sure.
But a good therapist knows how to navigate these waters without capsizing the whole boat.
If yours seems more interested in winning arguments than helping you, it might be time to find a new therapist.
Remember, therapy is a collaboration, not a debate competition.
If you’re leaving sessions feeling defeated instead of supported, something’s gotta change.
The Final Therapy Session
Alright, therapy troopers, we’ve been on quite a journey through the land of less-than-ideal therapists.
Let’s recap what we’ve learned:
1. A good therapist listens like their ears are glued to your words.
2. Judgment should stay at the door – therapy is a no-shame zone.
3. Dismissal is for courts, not therapy sessions.
4. Authenticity is key – your therapist should be as real as you are.
5. Reliability matters – therapy shouldn’t be a game of hide and seek.
6. Disagreements happen, but constant conflict is a no-go.
Remember, you’re not alone in this.
Many people go through several therapists before finding their perfect match.
It’s like dating, but for your mental health!
The most important thing is to trust your gut.
If something feels off, it probably is.
You deserve a therapist who makes you feel heard, respected, and supported.
So, the next time you’re in a therapy session, keep these signs in mind.
If you spot them, don’t be afraid to speak up or seek out someone new.
Your mental health journey is too important to settle for less than the best.
Now go forth and find your therapy soulmate!
Your future, mentally-healthier self is cheering you on!
Author: Michelle Landeros, LMFT
Michelle Landeros is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). She is passionate about helping individuals, couples and families thrive.