I’ve seen a psychologist before, but I did not find it helpful. Does this mean therapy will never work for me?
Written by Dr. Nisha Sethi, Clinical Psychologist
September, 2026
Please note that the content below is for general information purposes only and should not be used as health advice. Please see your health professional for suggestions specific to your needs.
Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash
It's not uncommon to hear people say they've seen a psychologist before and didn't find it helpful. Some may have seen one psychologist, while others have worked with several. If this has been your experience, it can be valuable to discuss it with your current psychologist.
Psychologists vary in their therapeutic styles, personalities, and approaches to treatment. These differences can significantly influence your experience of therapy. Understanding what has and hasn't worked for you in the past can help you find a better fit moving forward.
There are many reasons why previous therapy may not have felt helpful. For example:
You didn't feel heard or understood.
You weren't making the progress you hoped for.
The psychologist's personality or style didn't suit you.
You wanted someone who was more, or less, direct.
You didn't feel a strong connection or rapport.
Something they said left you feeling uncomfortable or misunderstood.
Therapy felt too focused on talking and not enough on practical strategies, or vice versa.
Life circumstances made it difficult to engage fully with therapy or practise skills between sessions.
The psychologist's preferred way of working wasn't a good fit for your needs.
Of course, there are many other reasons someone may feel dissatisfied with therapy.
Sometimes these concerns can be addressed within the therapeutic relationship. For example, if you feel you're not making progress, discussing this openly may help your psychologist better understand your expectations and adjust the approach. Similarly, if something a psychologist said affected you negatively, they may be unaware of its impact until you raise it.
However, there are also times when a psychologist may not be able to provide what you're looking for. This may be because the issue falls outside their area of expertise, or because the approach you're seeking isn't one they offer.
Returning to therapy after a disappointing experience can be difficult. It's understandable to feel discouraged or uncertain about trying again. However, if you're struggling with your mental health, seeking support from a qualified professional remains important.
A helpful starting point is reflecting on what did and didn't work for you previously. Consider what you value in a therapist, what kind of support you're hoping for, and what you would like to be different this time. Sharing these insights with your psychologist can help them tailor therapy to your needs.
You may choose to return to a previous psychologist and discuss what you'd like to change, or you may decide to find someone new and explain your past experiences. Your GP can also help you explore your options and identify appropriate supports.
Finding the right therapeutic fit can take time, but open communication and a willingness to reflect on past experiences can help create a more positive and effective therapy experience.