When people recommend a therapist to you, it’s easy to think it’s a good idea but then let things fall by the wayside. You may go for a therapy, love it and think you’ll rebook but then life starts to get in the way. I see many people who try to explain why they haven’t been or why they’ve left it so long to book.
The thing is, this is life. Things do get in the way and good intentions can fall by the wayside with other priorities. I see a lot of people who will book an appointment and then need to move it nearer the time. This is fine too, it means they’ve kept their therapy on their radar so six months doesn’t vanish in the blink of an eye.
‘Is it ok to book again after so long?’
My mantra to everyone who stresses they haven’t booked for ages, feel embarrassed they’ve left it so long, or just don’t feel they can commit to regular therapies is ‘when it’s the right time for you’. If you don’t want to come every 4-6 weeks. It’s ok, you don’t have to. Some people like a maintenance while others like to dip in when they feel they need it or funds allow. My job is to get you to listen to your body, so it doesn’t have to shout at you. If your body is fine with occasional therapies, that is right for you. So, don’t feel embarrassed that you haven’t seen your favourite therapist for a long time, they’ll be pleased to hear from you.
‘But I need a reminder’
On the other hand, I did have a client recently tell me they need the dates in their diary or they completely forget. Having been diagnosed as an adult with ADHD they’re aware they have time blindness as part of their condition. This means they need things in the diary to be able to organise themselves otherwise it goes completely off their radar. They’ve specifically asked that if we manage to cancel their appointments and I haven’t seen them for a month, to get in touch and give them a gentle reminder.
Knowing peoples’ boundaries and what they would prefer allows me to give the service you want. I don’t tend to chase people who haven’t been because I know they’ll book when its ‘the right time for them’, however if they want me to give them a nudge it’s something I can do to support your wellbeing. You just need to let me know you’d like me to do that.
So, when you go for a therapy remember your therapist will want to work with you to provide the best service they can. If that is sending you reminders, or letting you book in ‘when it’s right for you’, if you let them know they’ll be happy to oblige. And if you haven’t booked for a few years, don’t be embarrassed – therapists are used to seeing people after a long break!
Louise is an holistic therapist who owns Therapy Centre, BS14 9HB, a clinic offering a range of holistic therapies. Louise offers aromatherapy, reflexology, holistic massage, baby massage, and reiki. She is a mum of two boys and when she is not working she enjoys getting outdoors with her family. For further information, visit her website louise-morgan.co.uk