DEAR ABBY: I have been in therapy for four years. I like my therapist, who has helped me immensely. However, over the past year she has become increasingly tardy in keeping her appointment times.
I understand there are sometimes emergencies, but being a half-hour late every week is excessive. I feel it is disrespectful to me. She keeps saying I just don't understand.
How can I get across to her how frustrated I am? Or do I need to find a new therapist? -- BY THE CLOCK IN CONNECTICUT
DEAR BY THE CLOCK: Tell your therapist exactly how this is affecting you and ask what her problem is. She owes you an explanation.
I agree that being late for your appointment is disrespectful if it happens regularly. You may need to find another therapist. If that's the case, be sure to tell her why you are leaving. It takes courage to be assertive, but it will help you in your personal growth.