Why Do Some People Feel Worse After Therapy Sessions?

[Maya]

A therapy session can sometimes leave someone tired, emotional, or unsettled, particularly after discussing painful experiences. This does not automatically mean therapy is harmful. Why do some people feel worse immediately after therapy? Have you also felt this way? When did you discuss these reactions with your therapist?

 

[Shree]

Therapy can sometimes leave people feeling worse temporarily because difficult memories, emotions, or relationship problems may come up during a session. Talking about things that have been avoided can be exhausting. Some sessions may also bring relief later rather than immediately, especially when there is a lot to process.

 

[Arnold]

Therapy can sometimes leave someone feeling worse because difficult memories or emotions have been brought to the surface. A session can feel exhausting even when it was useful. Talking openly with the therapist about these reactions can help, especially if the emotional impact continues or starts affecting daily life.

 

[Hazel]

I’ve felt emotionally drained after difficult conversations, although not necessarily after therapy. I can understand why someone might feel worse after a session when painful memories or emotions have been brought up. Talking about those reactions with a therapist seems important, especially if the feelings continue between sessions or become overwhelming.