It's completely natural to have feelings of attachment or a desire to reconnect with a therapist who has helped you in the past. However, it's essential to consider professional boundaries and ethical considerations when trying to contact a former therapist who has moved away and changed their contact details.
Therapists are bound by confidentiality and ethical guidelines, which means they need to maintain clear boundaries with their clients, even after the therapeutic relationship has ended. Reaching out to them without their consent, especially if they have changed contact details and transitioned to private practice, could be seen as a breach of those boundaries.
If you feel the need to reconnect or seek further support, here are some appropriate steps you can take:
Respect their privacy: Understand that therapists may change their contact information for various reasons, including maintaining professional boundaries and privacy. Respect their decision to move on and set up their own practice.
Seek alternative resources: If you are in need of therapeutic support, consider seeking help from a new therapist or counselor in your area. There are many qualified professionals available who can offer valuable guidance and support.
Obtain permission: If you strongly believe that reconnecting with your old therapist is necessary for your well-being, try contacting them through their new practice or online presence, if available. If you can find an official way to reach out (e.g., their website's contact form or office phone number), you may inquire about the possibility of reestablishing contact. However, keep in mind that they have the right to decline or may not be able to respond due to professional obligations.
Utilize therapy termination resources: If your old therapist provided you with any resources during your therapy termination, such as referrals or self-help materials, consider revisiting those to support your well-being.
Reflect on the reasons for reconnection: Take some time to reflect on why you want to contact your old therapist. Understanding the underlying reasons can help you gain clarity and make informed decisions about seeking support.
Remember, therapists are trained to handle therapeutic relationships professionally and ethically. If you need ongoing support, seeking help from a new therapist can provide you with a fresh perspective and valuable insights to continue your personal growth and healing journey.