When Your Therapist Falls Asleep During Session: Understanding and Addressing the Issue

It's a scenario that most of us hope never happens: you're pouring your heart out in a therapy session, only to notice your therapist nodding off or even falling asleep. Unfortunately, I’ve had a handful of clients share that this has happened to them, which consequently turned them off from continuing to go to therapy. A therapist falling asleep during your session can be jarring, embarrassing, and can stir up a mix of emotions, from anger to hurt. And although this behavior should not be excused, I do feel compelled to explain what could be some reasons behind this. 

Why it Happens

• Fatigue: Therapists are human too, and like everyone else, they can get tired. For some therapists, their sessions might be the only time of their day they get to sit down and relax, leading to unintentional sleepiness.

• Listening can be Soothing: Sitting down to listen to someone's story can be calming and a welcome break from the chaos of a therapist’s day. The act of listening itself, coupled with a soothing tone of voice and a quiet environment, can be very relaxing.

• Monotony: If you're mostly venting in session, or otherwise not seeking active engagement from your therapist, they might find it challenging to stay fully engaged, leading to drifting off or daydreaming.

• Boredom or Overwhelm: This is not easy to say, but some therapists might struggle to stay engaged if your content isn't engaging or if you switch topics frequently.

• Underlying Health Conditions: Falling asleep during work can be a sign of a medical issue. If this is a recurrent problem, the therapist should consult a doctor.

What to Do If It Happens

• Confront Them: Transparency is key in therapy. Feel free to directly share your concerns with your therapist, making sure you express how it makes you feel. This can strengthen the therapeutic relationship and help resolve any underlying issues.

• Consider Changing Therapists: If the problem persists or if it significantly affects your therapy experience, it may be a sign that the therapist isn't the right fit for you. Don't give up on therapy! Please explore other options until you find someone who meets your needs. 



• Report Them: If you feel that your therapist's behavior is unethical or harmful, you can report them to their licensing board. This ensures accountability and protects other clients from similar experiences.

Regardless of the reasons why, a therapist falling asleep during your session is unacceptable, and it is not your fault. Your well-being and treatment is paramount, so don’t hesitate to take action. You deserve a therapist who can provide you with the attention and support you need to navigate your mental health journey effectively. 

I hope this helps. 

Until next time…

-Alana