As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us in Ontario, where bitter cold winters can seem to stretch endlessly, find our moods lifting. It’s not just anecdotal; research supports that people generally feel happier and more energetic during the summer months. This seasonal boost can often result in fewer people seeking support for sex or couples therapy during the summer.
Studies have shown that exposure to natural sunlight increases the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin, which is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused. Conversely, the darker winter months can lead to a drop in serotonin levels, potentially leading to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or exacerbating existing mental health issues. This fluctuation is particularly noticeable in places like Ontario, where winter’s harshness is keenly felt.
During the warmer, sunnier months, couples might find themselves more engaged in outdoor activities, vacations, and social gatherings, which can serve as temporary distractions from ongoing relationship issues or sexual concerns. The natural improvement in mood can also make problems seem less pressing, leading to a decreased urgency in seeking therapy.
For therapists, this seasonal slowdown can actually be a blessing in disguise. Here’s why:
- Revitalize and Rest: Use this period to focus on self-care. Running a practice and providing constant support to clients can be draining. Take this time to recharge your batteries. Whether it’s taking a vacation, spending time outdoors, or engaging in hobbies, ensure you’re practicing what you preach about maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
- Continuing Education: Summer is a perfect time to enhance your skills. Engage in workshops, courses, or certifications that can enrich your practice. As a provider of consultation and supervision for sex and couples therapy, I offer a range of training programs. This is an excellent opportunity to dive deeper into specific areas of interest or to broaden your understanding of the latest therapeutic techniques.
- Reflect and Plan: Use the quieter months to reflect on your practice. What’s working well? What could be improved? Plan for the busy months ahead. Consider revising your marketing strategies, updating your website, or planning new workshops or group sessions for the fall.
- Connect with Peers: The summer slowdown can also be a good time to network with other professionals. Attend conferences, join professional groups, or simply catch up with colleagues. Sharing experiences and learning from others can provide fresh perspectives and new ideas for your practice.
- Prepare for the Fall Surge: Historically, the demand for therapy increases in the fall as routines normalize and the seasonal affective shifts begin to set in. Use the summer to prepare for this surge. Ensure your administrative processes are streamlined, and perhaps even consider hiring additional support if needed.
It’s essential to recognize that while the summer months may bring a temporary lull in appointments, the need for sex and couples therapy doesn’t diminish. As therapists, we must be ready to support our clients year-round, but also to take advantage of the natural ebbs and flows of the profession to ensure our own well-being and professional growth.
So, while you enjoy the sunshine and warmth of summer, remember that this is also a time for rejuvenation and growth. And if you’re interested in enhancing your skills in sex and couples therapy, consider reaching out for consultation and supervision. Together, we can continue to provide the highest quality care for our clients, no matter the season.