A Warm Handoff: Transitioning to a New Therapist
The end of a therapeutic relationship can happen for a variety of reasons. One, the treatment goals have been met and the client is ready to terminate. Two, the client is struggling financially and is unable to continue sessions due to cost or insurance complications. Three, a therapist or counselor transitions to another practice or place of work.
Of course, we strive for the first reason. That’s always the goal. However, sometimes the other situations come into play, and we have to pivot.
The following speaks to the third reason and what that transition may entail.
Process the News
Your therapist has just shared that they are leaving their current practice and moving on to somewhere else. Whether you’ve been with this therapist for three sessions or three years, this news can take a beat to digest.
Questions may flood your mind: Why are they leaving? Where are they going? Do you really have to end sessions with them, or can you follow them? What does their leaving mean for you?
All of these questions, and any others that arise, are 100% valid. Don’t hesitate to talk to your therapist about the news, name what you’re feeling, and ask what you’re wondering. Nothing is off-limits. This communication may be one of the best ways to help you process and make sense of the transition.
In some cases, you may be able to follow your therapist to their new practice. If that happens, you may be able to skip the rest of the transition process and complete the necessary paperwork to transfer from one practice to another.
Grieve Your Current Alliance
But what if there isn’t a way for you to follow your therapist? Instead, they may be recommending other therapists to you.
In this situation, feelings of grief can absolutely arise. You may experience anger, sadness, anxiety, or a mix of emotions that are difficult to name.
Here are some expressions of grief I’ve heard from clients after sharing that I was leaving for a position where I would be working with a different population and in a different setting, bringing our therapeutic relationship to an end:
“It felt like a bombshell.”
“You’re my one constant.”
“I can’t even think of starting with someone new.”
“I’ve put so much work in with you.”
Again, all of this is valid and understandable. My least favorite thing is breaking hearts and disappointing people I’ve come to enjoy working with and getting to know.
However, all hope is not lost. You won’t be left abandoned. There are ways to make the transition easier and smoother.
Consider a Warm Handoff
One way to ease the transition and make it more comfortable is through what’s called a “warm handoff.” This is when your current therapist joins a session with you and your new therapist, facilitates introductions, and helps everyone begin the transition together.
A warm handoff can be greatly beneficial for both you and your now-former therapist. It allows you to have a familiar face in the room as you meet someone new, and it gives your former therapist an opportunity to see that you’re in good hands.
Because, believe it or not, we think about this. Sometimes we worry about it. We want you to feel comfortable and to be okay. We want to make sure you find a good fit for you and your needs.
The Cartoon Character on Your Shoulder
This section is purely for fun, and I’m borrowing the idea from a fellow therapist during a warm handoff. She said, “Therapists never really leave you. We stick around as a voice in your head or as a cartoon character on your shoulder.”
As you transition to another therapist, keep this in mind. Past therapists, counselors, and mental health professionals stay with you. Both the good and the bad—which probably determines which shoulder we are placed on—go with you on your journey, reminding you of what you’ve learned and how far you’ve come.
At Advanced Counseling, we understand the importance of continuity of care and finding the right fit for you. When a therapist transitions, our practice is committed to minimizing disruptions by helping provide a seamless handoff to another therapist within our team. Our goal is to help your treatment and counseling journey continue with as little interruption as possible.
We also understand that this process can still feel scary and a little jarring, and we are here to help. You can visit our website to read our therapist bios and explore who may be the right fit for you. Don’t hesitate to let us know what you need during the transition.