What to Do When Therapy Isn’t Working
A Guide from Black Onyx Counselling in London, Ontario
Starting therapy is a brave and powerful step. You want things to change, to heal, and to grow — but what happens when it feels like therapy just… isn’t working?
First, know this: you’re not alone. So many people hit this point at some stage in their therapy journey. Sometimes it’s about finding the right approach. Sometimes it’s about shifting your goals. And sometimes, it’s about having an honest conversation with your therapist.
Here’s what you can do if you feel stuck in therapy — and how our team at Black Onyx Counselling can help.
1. Talk Openly with Your Therapist
This might feel obvious, but it’s the most important step. If therapy isn’t feeling effective or you’re frustrated by a lack of progress, bring it up with your therapist.
A good therapist wants to know what’s working and what isn’t. Together, you can explore:
Whether you need to adjust how often you meet
Whether a different therapy approach or modality might work better
Whether your goals have shifted and need realignment
At Black Onyx Counselling, we value the therapist-client relationship above all else. We create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share your concerns openly so your therapy truly supports you.
2. Revisit Your Therapy Goals
Therapy works best when you know what you’re working toward — but goals can evolve over time.
You might have started therapy to manage anxiety or process trauma, but now you’re focused on building healthier relationships or developing coping tools. That’s normal and healthy.
Take some time to reflect:
What initially brought you to therapy?
What do you want to feel, understand, or achieve now?
Are your current sessions supporting those needs?
If you’re struggling to identify your goals, our London-based therapists — and our team offering virtual counselling across Ontario — can help you get clear on what matters most to you.
3. Celebrate How Far You’ve Come
It’s easy to get caught up in what isn’t working and forget to notice what has changed. Progress in therapy can be subtle and gradual — but that doesn’t make it any less powerful.
Try these reflection exercises:
Check in with friends and family. They often notice shifts you might not see, like calmer reactions, better boundaries, or greater emotional balance.
Review your starting point. Journaling, past notes, or even reflecting on your “before” self can show just how much you’ve grown.
Ask your therapist. At Black Onyx Counselling, we love celebrating client wins, big and small. Sometimes you need an outside perspective to see the progress you’ve made.
When Therapy Still Doesn’t Feel Right
Sometimes, even after adjusting goals and approaches, a particular therapist or style just isn’t the right fit. That’s okay — it doesn’t mean therapy can’t work.
At Black Onyx Counselling in London, Ontario, our team offers a range of approaches and therapists, so you can find someone who feels right for you. From trauma-informed counselling to anxiety support and relationship therapy, we’re here to walk beside you on your journey.
Start Fresh with Black Onyx Counselling
Whether you’re feeling stuck in therapy, questioning your progress, or ready to try a new approach, you deserve support that works.
We offer:
In-person counselling in London, Ontario
Virtual therapy across Ontario
A team of diverse, compassionate therapists trained in multiple modalities
If you’re ready to reconnect with yourself and move toward your goals, reach out to us today to book a session.
