It's important to keep in mind that seeking support from a licensed mental health professional is crucial during this time. Here are some steps you can consider taking:
Allow yourself to feel and process emotions: Experiencing a sudden termination of therapy can be emotionally distressing. Give yourself permission to feel and express your emotions without judgment. Allow yourself time to process the feelings of rejection, confusion, and loss that may arise.
Seek support from friends and family: Lean on supportive friends and family members to talk about your feelings and experiences. Sharing your emotions with someone you trust can be incredibly healing.
Find a new therapist: It might be beneficial to find a new therapist to work through the unresolved issues and the impact of the previous therapeutic relationship. Look for a therapist with a good reputation and strong boundaries, and consider discussing your previous experience in therapy during the initial sessions to set expectations and address any concerns.
Focus on self-care: Engage in self-care activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This may include exercise, spending time in nature, mindfulness practices, creative pursuits, or any activity that brings you joy and relaxation.
Practice self-compassion: Be gentle and understanding with yourself during this challenging time. Acknowledge that healing takes time and it's okay to have ups and downs along the way.
Reflect on transference and boundaries: Take some time to reflect on the transference issues you experienced and the therapist's poor boundaries. Understanding these dynamics can help you gain insight into the therapeutic relationship and support your healing process.
Consider discussing the termination: If you feel comfortable, consider reaching out to the former therapist to discuss the termination and express your feelings or concerns. However, remember that you are not obligated to do so and should only proceed if you believe it will be helpful for your healing process.
Consider support groups: Support groups, whether in-person or online, can be valuable resources for connecting with others who may have had similar experiences. Sharing your feelings and hearing from others can provide validation and comfort.
Practice patience: Healing from the impact of a challenging therapeutic experience takes time. Be patient with yourself and trust that with the right support and self-compassion, you can move forward.
Remember that each person's healing journey is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. If you find that you're struggling to cope or the emotional distress persists, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional who can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.