Red Flags When Choosing a Therapist
While therapy should be a safe and supportive experience, not all therapists are the right fit. Some behaviors can be signs that a therapist may not be providing ethical or effective care.
Here are some red flags to watch out for:
They Dismiss or Minimize Your Feelings
If a therapist regularly downplays your struggles, invalidates your emotions, or makes you feel like your problems aren’t “serious enough,” it may be time to find someone else.
They Overstep Professional Boundaries
This includes inappropriate self-disclosure, attempting to befriend you outside of therapy, or making you feel uncomfortable with personal questions unrelated to treatment.
They Push Their Own Beliefs on You
A therapist should respect your values and worldview. If they pressure you to adopt their religious, political, or personal views, that’s a major red flag.
They Don’t Listen or Interrupt You Often
If you constantly feel like your therapist isn’t fully present, interrupts you, or talks more about themselves than about your concerns, they may not be providing quality care.
They Lack Cultural Competency
A therapist should be sensitive to your identity, background, and unique experiences. If they dismiss your cultural, racial, or gender-related concerns, they may not be the right fit.
You Consistently Leave Feeling Worse
While therapy can be challenging, you should generally leave sessions feeling supported or with a sense of direction. If sessions consistently leave you feeling ashamed, drained, or hopeless, consider seeking a new therapist.
Permission to Leave a Red Flag Therapist
This is your permission to leave this therapeutic relationship. It may be healing for you to give the feedback to the therapist or it is okay to let them know you will no longer be scheduling. Ghosting is ambiguous for both you and the therapist. Ghosting for you does not give you a final closure. Finding a therapist who is the right match for you can take some trial and error, and that’s okay. Recognizing green flags will help you find a therapist who offers great care, while noticing red and beige flags will keep you from wasting your time in therapy that’s not helpful. Therapy should be a place where you feel safe, supported, and empowered to heal.
Are you ready to make the change you've been craving?
With 15 years of experience as a therapist, I provide virtual therapy, coaching, intensives, and group programs, alongside in-person workshops that are designed for real, lasting results.
If you're ready to break free from the overwhelm, achieve your goals, and create a life you love, let's make it happen. I offer free 30 minute consultations so we can connect, explore your needs, and discuss how we can work together. I can’t wait to hear from you and help you start your transformation!
Book your free 30 minute consultation HERE!!
