It's important to remember that I don't have specific information about your therapist or your therapy sessions, so the following are general possibilities:
Therapeutic approach: Different therapists may have different therapeutic approaches, and some may take a more passive role during sessions, allowing clients to explore their thoughts and feelings independently. This approach can be helpful for some individuals, but it may feel like abandonment or neglect to others who prefer more guidance and intervention.
Miscommunication: There might be a misunderstanding between you and your therapist about what you expect from therapy or the level of involvement you desire from them. Openly discussing your feelings and concerns with your therapist can help clarify these issues.
Challenging growth: Sometimes, therapists intentionally refrain from intervening immediately to encourage clients to work through their emotions and develop coping skills independently. This can be a way to foster personal growth and self-reliance.
Transference: It's possible that your strong feelings toward your therapist (e.g., feeling she means a lot to you) may be related to transference. Transference occurs when emotions from past relationships are unconsciously transferred onto the therapist. This could influence how you perceive her actions or lack thereof.
Therapist's perspective: From the therapist's standpoint, they might believe that giving you space to express yourself without interference allows for a deeper exploration of your thoughts and emotions. They may trust the process and believe it will ultimately be beneficial for you.
Therapist's boundaries: Therapists are trained to maintain professional boundaries and not become overly involved in their clients' lives. While they should be compassionate and caring, they need to strike a balance between empathy and avoiding dependency.
If you feel that your therapist's approach is not helpful or is causing distress, it's essential to communicate your concerns with them openly. A therapeutic relationship should be collaborative, and discussing your needs and preferences can lead to adjustments in the therapeutic process. If you find that you still don't feel heard or supported, and you believe it's negatively impacting your progress, you may consider seeking a different therapist whose style aligns better with your needs.
Remember that therapy is about your well-being, and finding the right therapist who can provide you with the support and guidance you need is crucial for your growth and healing.