Navigating Feelings of Abandonment When a Therapist is Off for One Session

Experiencing feelings of abandonment when a therapist is off sick for just one session can be completely normal. These emotions, despite their intensity, can be profound indicators of underlying issues and opportunities for personal growth.

Understanding Abandonment Feelings in Therapy

Abandonment feelings are common, and they can be triggered by seemingly insignificant events, such as a missed session. It is important to discuss these feelings with your therapist as they can serve as significant markers for personal work. Your therapist is not likely to change their habits when sick, nor should they take it personally, but addressing these emotions can significantly benefit your therapeutic journey.

Is Discontinuing Therapy a Concern?

No, the fact that you are experiencing these feelings does not mean you should discontinue therapy. Insecure attachment anxiety can manifest as intense reactions to interpersonal disruptions. It is crucial to communicate these feelings to your therapist. While therapy is not a permanent solution, working through such insecurities can lead to long-term emotional well-being.

Reflecting on Your Emotional Experiences

Expressing that you feel abandoned when your therapist is off for a single session can be an unusual reaction, but it is important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of what is "normal." Your feelings are valid and unique to your experience. Believing that these feelings are abnormal or wrong can lead to self-judgment and further emotional distress.

It is essential to recognize that every individual’s experience is unique. Feeling alone, jolted, anxious, or afraid during therapy is a natural part of the process. Instead of labeling these feelings as abnormal, use them as tools for exploration. The purpose of therapy is to help you uncover the root causes of your attachment wounds and understand why even a single missed session can trigger intense emotions.

The Path to Recovery

The journey of recovery is often counterintuitive. Instead of trying to hide or ignore your emotions, embrace them with curiosity. When we judge ourselves, we are essentially abandoning ourselves. By replacing judgment with curiosity, we can delve into the underlying issues and work towards healing.

The way to recovery involves facing our emotional wounds rather than avoiding them. Through therapy, we can explore our past experiences and understand how they have shaped our current emotions. This process is not about perfection but about growth and self-awareness.

Remember, the importance of your feelings should not be underestimated. By addressing these feelings with your therapist, you can move towards a deeper understanding of yourself and work towards emotional well-being.