How to Stay In Touch With Your Therapist This Summer

Summer is often associated with travel, flexible routines, and a more relaxed pace—but for those working on their mental health, it can also bring disruption to established support systems. Whether you're planning a vacation, juggling new responsibilities, or navigating the emotional ups and downs of seasonal change, it's important to keep mental health a priority. Staying in touch with your therapist during the summer can help you maintain progress and continue feeling supported, no matter what your schedule looks like.

8 Ways to Stay In Touch With Your Therapist This Summer

Clarify Expectations This Summer

At the start of the season, talk with your therapist about your summer plans. Ask about their availability and discuss how often you'd like to check in. Setting clear expectations now can prevent miscommunication later.

Discuss How You Feel About Pending Absences or Vacations

If either you or your therapist will be taking time off, it's helpful to talk openly about how that might impact your progress. Acknowledging and planning for the emotional effects of temporary pauses in care can help you feel more prepared.

Identify Potential Stressors and How You Might Address Them

Summertime brings its own challenges: family visits, travel stress, social expectations. Discuss these with your therapist in advance so you can strategize healthy ways to respond.

Refresh Your Coping Skills

Ask your therapist to review and update your coping techniques based on what you anticipate encountering this summer. This might include practicing grounding techniques, creating a self-care checklist, or reframing common anxiety triggers.

Use a Journal to Process Events and Emotions

Journaling can serve as a stand-in for therapy on days when sessions aren’t possible. It helps you keep track of thoughts, feelings, and experiences that you can later bring up in your next session.

Practice Self-Care

Prioritize activities that promote well-being, whether it’s reading, meditating, walking, or simply getting outside. These small efforts can keep your emotional health stable between therapy sessions.

Get Back to the Basics: Eat, Move, Sleep

Maintain your foundation by focusing on consistent sleep, balanced meals, and regular physical activity. These habits can significantly improve your mood and mental resilience.

Schedule Something Fun

Summer isn’t just about managing stress—it’s about creating joy. Plan an activity you’ll look forward to, whether it's a solo adventure or time with loved ones. Enjoyment is just as important to your mental health as coping skills.

What To Do If Your Psychiatrist Takes a Vacation This Summer

It’s completely normal for psychiatrists to take time off, and it doesn’t mean your care has to come to a halt. If your provider is unavailable for a period of time:

• Ask for a plan: Before they leave, request a plan to manage your mental health during their absence.

• Review your coping toolkit: Make sure you have resources in place, like journal prompts, relaxation techniques, or emergency contacts.

• Know when to reach out: If your symptoms escalate, don’t wait. Contact an on-call provider, local crisis line, or your therapist’s recommended backup.

A Reason To Reach Out to The Beverly Hills Psychiatrist

Whether you're continuing therapy this summer or just getting started, The Beverly Hills Psychiatrist offers flexible, concierge-style care that meets you where you are. We understand that life doesn’t pause just because the seasons change. Our team is here to help you create a personalized plan to stay supported, grounded, and mentally well all summer long.

If you're looking for guidance, consistency, or a trusted partner in your mental health journey, reach out to The Beverly Hills Psychiatrist today.

Contact The Beverly Hills Psychiatrist