Whether it's okay to contact your former therapist depends on the circumstances and your specific situation.
Boundaries and Ethical Guidelines: Therapists are bound by ethical guidelines and professional boundaries. In some cases, they may not be allowed to engage in any personal or non-professional communication with former clients to protect both parties' well-being and ensure confidentiality.
Termination and Closure: If your therapy ended in a planned and mutually agreed-upon manner, it's generally best to respect that closure and not initiate contact. The termination process is an essential part of therapy, and re-opening communication might hinder your progress or the therapist's ability to assist others effectively.
Seeking Professional Support: If you are going through a tough time and feel like you need support, it's generally more appropriate to reach out to a current therapist or seek a new one. They can provide you with the support you need without the potential complications that may arise from reconnecting with a former therapist.
Exceptions: There may be some exceptional situations where contacting a former therapist could be appropriate and helpful. For example, you may need to ask for your records to be transferred to a new therapist or inquire about a particular aspect of your treatment.
Time Since Last Session: If you've been out of therapy for an extended period, reaching out to your former therapist might not be the best course of action. It's crucial to consider how much time has passed since you last saw them and whether your reasons for contacting them are well-founded.
To make an informed decision, consider these points and think about your motivation for reaching out to your former therapist. If you believe there is a valid and essential reason to contact them, you can consider doing so. However, if you're unsure, it might be best to seek support from a current therapist or mental health professional.