Is It Okay to Ask Your Therapist if They Go to Therapy?
Absolutely! Asking your therapist if they go to therapy can be an insightful and valid question. Therapy is a deeply personal journey, and for many therapists, it’s also an essential part of their professional and personal growth. Here’s why it’s not only okay to ask but also a sign of a healthy curiosity about the therapeutic process.
I Go to Therapy Myself
As a therapist, I go to therapy every other week. This time is invaluable for me—not only in processing personal life challenges but also in reflecting on my work. Therapy helps me gain feedback and perspective from a seasoned professional whom I trust.
There are times when I think about stepping back from therapy. Like many of my clients, I also grapple with the financial commitment. Therapy isn’t cheap! But after every session, I’m reminded of why it’s worth it. I leave feeling lighter, more focused, and better equipped to show up for my clients and loved ones. It’s an investment in my well-being and in the work I do with others.
Why Therapists Going to Therapy Matters
Therapists are human. We experience stress, challenges, and life transitions just like everyone else. Therapy gives us a space to:
Process personal struggles and maintain emotional balance.
Reflect on how our own experiences might affect our work with clients.
Continue learning about ourselves, which ultimately makes us better therapists.
When a therapist invests in their own mental health, it’s a sign of self-awareness and commitment to their craft.
Other Ways Therapists Take Care of Themselves
While therapy is one important tool, it’s not the only way therapists stay grounded and continue to grow. Another valuable resource is supervision. This might include:
Peer Supervision: Regularly meeting with other therapists to discuss cases and share insights.
Clinical Supervision: Consulting with a more seasoned provider to gain feedback and guidance.
Supervision is not just for early-career therapists—it’s a lifelong practice that reflects a commitment to ethical, reflective, and effective therapy.
Do I Think My Therapist Goes to Therapy?
Honestly, I don’t think my therapist goes to therapy herself. That said, I know she prioritizes her own growth in other ways. She stays connected to her professional community, attends continuing education events, and maintains a commitment to learning.
While therapy is a powerful tool, it’s not the only path for personal and professional development. What matters most is that a therapist is actively engaged in their own growth, whether that’s through therapy, supervision, or other forms of self-care and education.
It’s Okay to Ask
If you’re curious about whether your therapist goes to therapy, ask! A good therapist will be open and transparent. They’ll likely appreciate your curiosity and use it as an opportunity to discuss the importance of self-care and ongoing growth in their field.
Final Thoughts
Therapy is about creating a space for reflection, growth, and healing—for both the client and the therapist. By investing in their own well-being, therapists model the very self-care they encourage in their clients.
So, if you’ve ever wondered whether it’s okay to ask your therapist if they go to therapy, the answer is yes. In fact, it’s a great way to start a deeper conversation about what makes therapy such a transformative experience for all of us.