I can provide insights into how some individuals might feel when their therapist is late or cancels therapy sessions.
When a therapist is late or cancels a session, it can evoke various emotions and reactions in their clients. Some common feelings that clients may experience include:
Disappointment: Clients may feel disappointed if they were looking forward to the session or had specific issues they wanted to discuss.
Anxiety or Frustration: For some clients, a last-minute cancellation or unexpected lateness can trigger feelings of anxiety or frustration, especially if they rely on therapy for emotional support.
Abandoned or Unimportant: In some cases, clients might interpret the cancellation as a sign that they are not a priority or that their therapist doesn't value their time and commitment.
Relief: On the other hand, some clients may feel relieved if they were hesitant about attending the session or if they were unsure about discussing certain topics.
Concern for the Therapist: Clients may also feel concerned about the well-being of their therapist if there's a legitimate reason for the cancellation, such as illness or personal emergencies.
Disrupted Routine: Clients who rely on a regular therapy schedule may feel unsettled if sessions are frequently canceled or rescheduled.
Doubt or Insecurity: Clients might question the stability of the therapeutic relationship or wonder if they did something to cause the cancellation.
It's essential for therapists to communicate clearly and transparently about any schedule changes and to acknowledge the impact on their clients. A responsible and ethical therapist will try to minimize disruptions and reschedule sessions promptly when necessary.
If you find that you are consistently feeling distressed or uncomfortable due to late or canceled sessions, it's essential to discuss your feelings with your therapist. Open communication can help address any concerns, and your therapist can work with you to find a solution that meets your needs. Remember, the therapeutic relationship should be built on trust and understanding, and your therapist should be receptive to your feelings and feedback.