5 Signs It's Time for a Therapist to See a Therapist

From burnout and self-doubt to the tricky dynamics of finding a therapist who “gets it,” this post explores why it's okay to reach out for support—and how to overcome the unique challenges therapists face when seeking therapy.

As therapists, we spend our careers helping others navigate life’s toughest challenges, from anxiety and depression to burnout and relationship struggles. But we’re human too—human beings who get stuck in the same emotional dilemmas our clients do. It might be hard to admit, but even the most skilled therapists can find themselves in need of a therapist. So, how do you know when it’s time to reach out for help? Here are five signs that may suggest it’s time to book an appointment with someone who’s not you (or your colleagues or your best friend or a glass of wine at the end of the day).

1. You’re Giving Too Much of Yourself… and There’s Nothing Left

You’re a caregiver by nature, but there’s a fine line between being a compassionate, empathetic therapist and being the person who gives until there's nothing left to give. You know the feeling—you’re exhausted, drained, and emotionally tapped out. Maybe it shows up after a particularly tough day with clients or as the cumulative effect of weeks of non-stop helping. Your professional skills are intact, but personally, you’re struggling.

In those moments, it’s easy to tell yourself that you should be able to handle it on your own. But remember: just because you’re trained to support others, doesn’t mean you’re immune to needing support yourself. It’s okay to admit that you’ve overextended, and reaching out for help is a powerful act of self-care. You were not put on this planet to meet others’ needs, and you are not a martyr. And, your gravestone will not read “saw 40 clients a week and never complained”.

2. You’ve Developed a Case of “Therapist’s Guilt”

As therapists, we often carry an unrealistic expectation that we must always be in control of our emotions and actions, especially when we’re navigating tough personal moments. That guilt about needing help can sometimes overshadow our very human need for support. After all, aren't we supposed to have it together? Isn’t that why people come to see us because we have conquered all?

It’s important to recognize that even the most seasoned professionals need guidance from time to time. You are allowed to experience the full range of human emotions without guilt. If you feel anxiety about seeking therapy, try reminding yourself that therapy isn’t a weakness; it’s a resource. You help your clients process their feelings—why should it be any different for you? As a therapist specializing in other therapists, you don’t have to worry about my emotional capacity or trauma dumping on me. I’m okay. Let me take care of you.

3. You’ve Hit a Roadblock in Your Own Self-Awareness

Therapists are often the ones guiding clients to a deeper understanding of themselves. But what happens when you reach a point where your own self-awareness feels stagnant? Maybe you’re struggling with unresolved issues, or you keep hitting a wall when attempting to practice what you preach. It might feel uncomfortable to admit that your own growth has plateaued, but it’s a sign that it’s time for a fresh perspective. A therapist can help you break through your blind spots, whether it’s through deepening your self-awareness or offering you new tools to work through the things you’ve been avoiding. Besides, we can only take others are far as we’ve gone right?

4. You’re Starting to Feel Like a “Fake” Therapist

We all know the phrase “imposter syndrome.” But for therapists, the feeling of inadequacy can feel even more profound. Maybe you're experiencing self-doubt, like you don’t have all the answers or that you aren’t doing enough for your clients. Perhaps your work feels disconnected from your authentic self, or you're second-guessing your methods. These feelings are more common than you think—especially when you’ve been in the field for a long time.

Therapists are naturally inclined to help others, but that doesn’t mean we should always be “on.” Seeking therapy can help you ground yourself again and remind you that, just like your clients, you are deserving of support and care. Plus, you’re allowed to have bad days and moments of doubt.

5. Finding a Therapist Who Gets You Feels Like Searching for a Unicorn

It’s hard enough finding a therapist who fits your needs, but as a therapist, there’s an additional layer of complexity. When you finally decide to reach out for support, it can be uncomfortable when your therapist starts questioning your credentials, feels nervous about treating a fellow therapist, or tries a little too hard to impress you with impressive jargon or unconventional methods right off the bat. Let’s be honest—sometimes it’s tough to find someone who feels completely comfortable treating a colleague, and that can be frustrating.

Therapists are used to holding space for others, but that doesn’t always extend to holding space for us in return. If you’ve ever had the experience of a therapist getting overly anxious about your background or feeling like they need to “perform,” you know how quickly that can derail a therapeutic relationship. Ideally, you need someone who can treat you like any other client, without the pressure of mutual professional expectations. If you can find a therapist who understands this dynamic and makes you feel at ease, you’ve found a rare gem!

And then there’s the financial hurdle. Many therapists—especially those who are overworked and underpaid—struggle with the barrier of finding affordable, accessible care. Even if you’ve located a therapist who specializes in treating fellow helping professionals, the reality is that therapy is often expensive, and your budget may not always match your needs.

If you’re in a place where finances and accessibility are key concerns, consider looking for therapists who offer sliding scale fees, or those who have experience with the financial constraints of being in the helping profession. Some therapists may also be open to bartering services or offering packages for reduced rates. The key is to find a solution that works for you without feeling guilty about the financial aspect. Your well-being is worth investing in.

Wrapping It Up: Therapy Isn’t Just for Clients

Being a therapist doesn’t make you immune to emotional and mental health challenges. In fact, it often means you’re more attuned to your own struggles and the barriers that might be keeping you from getting the help you need. If any of these five signs resonate with you, it may be time to take the next step and reach out to a colleague or another trusted professional.

Don’t let pride, fear, or guilt hold you back from getting the support you deserve. You’re human. You’re a therapist who deserves a therapist. And the world will be better off when you prioritize your own mental health.

Ready to take the next step? Book your consultation HERE.