Trauma Work - Should you take a break from Therapy?

Dealing with trauma during therapy can be an incredibly challenging and draining experience that impacts various aspects of your being. The toll it takes is not limited to just the mental and emotional realms but can also manifest physically and spiritually. The process of confronting past traumas can stir up intense emotions, memories, and sensations, leading to a profound sense of exhaustion.

It is important to recognise that navigating through trauma is a journey that requires immense strength and resilience. Remember, it's crucial to prioritise self-care and listen to your body's signals. Taking breaks when needed is not a sign of weakness but a vital act of self-preservation and self-compassion. Giving yourself permission to pause and recharge can help prevent burnout and enable you to continue the therapeutic work with a renewed sense of energy and focus.

Signs that you might be ready to take a break from therapy:

• If you and your therapist are starting to find the sessions repetitive

• If you are frequently cancelling or rescheduling sessions

• If you often lose interest in the discussions

• If you feel overwhelmed and require more time to process the work already covered

• If progress has stalled

• If you need time to implement what has already been discussed

Advantages of pausing therapy sessions:

• Opportunity to put into practice what you have absorbed during therapy

• Willingness to investigate other methods of healing

• Reflecting on the effectiveness of therapy in your life

• Boosting your self-assurance in managing difficult circumstances on your own

• Reassessing your objectives

How long should the break be?

If you have been attending therapy sessions weekly, you might want to consider reducing the frequency to once every two weeks, and then to once a month, before deciding to take a complete break. This approach will allow you to assess your experience with your therapist and make any necessary adjustments thoughtfully. The duration of your break may vary depending on your progress in therapy and the time already invested. The break should be sufficient for you to rest and apply what you have learned. It is advisable to have a conversation with your therapist about taking a break, discussing coping mechanisms, and determining the appropriate length of time for your break while also considering how to recognise when it's time to resume therapy.

It is important that your therapist is willing to talk about this with you. You should never feel obligated to keep attending sessions, but if you have been seeing your therapist for some time, it could be beneficial to hear their perspective on the idea of taking a break. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make.

Disclaimer: Information and opinions in this blog do not constitute as therapy or personalised professional advice. If you feel that you would like personalised support from a qualified Psychotherapist you are welcome to book a free introductory call with me or search for a therapist on online directories such as the Counselling Directory or Psychology Today .

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