Ethical Obligation: Therapists have a professional and ethical responsibility to prioritize their clients' well-being. If a therapist believes that ongoing therapy is necessary for a client's mental health, they may encourage the client to continue attending sessions. This is especially true if the therapist feels there are unresolved issues or concerns that need further exploration and support.
Fear of Abandonment: Some therapists may have concerns about their clients' emotional well-being if therapy is abruptly terminated. They may worry that stopping sessions without proper closure could be emotionally distressing for the client.
Miscommunication: There might have been a miscommunication between you and your therapist about your decision to terminate therapy. They may have misunderstood your intentions or might not have adequately addressed your reasons for wanting to stop therapy.
Attachment and Transference: In some cases, clients can develop a strong attachment to their therapists or experience feelings of transference (projecting emotions onto the therapist). Your therapist's distant behavior could be influenced by their awareness of these dynamics and their efforts to maintain appropriate boundaries.
Therapist's Personal Challenges: Therapists, like all individuals, have their personal lives and challenges. There might be factors outside of the therapeutic relationship that are influencing their behavior.
Supervision or Consultation: Sometimes, therapists seek guidance from their supervisors or colleagues when faced with challenging situations. This might lead to a temporary change in their demeanor as they process the advice they received.
It's essential to communicate openly with your therapist about how you feel regarding the situation. If you feel comfortable, you can express your concerns about their behavior and ask for clarification. Honest communication can help both of you understand each other's perspectives better and potentially resolve any misunderstandings.
If, after communicating with your therapist, you still feel uncomfortable or believe that the therapeutic relationship is not productive, you have the right to seek support from a different therapist. Finding a therapist with whom you feel a strong therapeutic alliance is crucial for effective therapy.