Spotting Your Therapist “In the Wild”
Seeing your therapist in public can feel unexpected.
Maybe even a little awkward. It’s like spotting a wild animal out of its natural habitat! You might be caught off guard; after all, you’re used to seeing them in a private, professional setting where the focus is entirely on you.
Suddenly running into them at the grocery store, restaurant, or park can blur those clear boundaries that therapy usually provides. You may not know whether to wave, say hello, or pretend you didn’t notice them. You might even forget how to act in public for a moment.
You may find yourself wondering:
“Do I say hello? Pretend I don’t see them? Duck and hide behind this display of protein bars? Pivot and fast-walk in the other direction?”
It’s important to remember that therapists are people too. They have their own lives outside of sessions, and seeing them in public is a natural part of that. Most therapists follow professional ethical guidelines that discourage them from initiating contact with clients outside of the office. This helps protect your privacy and maintain clear boundaries.
Imagine you’re at your local coffee shop with a friend and you spot your therapist. You probably wouldn’t want them asking how you’re doing with those coping skills you discussed last week!
Emotionally, the experience can bring up mixed feelings. You might feel curious about what they’re like outside of therapy or wonder if they see you differently now that you’ve crossed paths in public. It’s also normal to feel anxious, embarrassed, or unsure of how to act. Those feelings are completely valid — and they can even be a useful topic to bring up in your next session. Talking it through can help you learn more about boundaries, comfort levels, and what the therapeutic relationship means to you.
If you ever do find yourself “seeing your therapist in the wild,” the best move is to stay calm and do whatever makes you feel comfortable. You could smile and nod if that feels right, or choose not to engage at all. If you’re feeling bold and confident, you might even strike up short pleasantries — any of those options are perfectly appropriate. What matters most is that your privacy and emotional safety are protected. That’s why your therapist will not initiate contact first.
In the end, seeing your therapist in public is a small reminder that they’re human too. Just one who happens to know a bit too much about your childhood and inner world.
Here at Atlanta Wellness Collective, we want to help. For support, contact us or schedule an appointment online.
This blog post was written by Elizabeth (Lyzz) Neal
This blog is not intended to substitute professional therapeutic advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your health concerns and before starting or stopping therapies. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct professional advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
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