An Intern Therapist's Perspective on Situationships

Most people are familiar with the term situationship by now. If not, it’s commonly defined as a romantic connection that exists somewhere between casual and committed—there are feelings, time spent together, maybe even emotional intimacy, but no clearly defined label like “boyfriend” or “girlfriend.”

And despite how common they are, situationships tend to get a bad reputation.

People often hear:

• “You should leave.”

• “They don’t care about you.”

• “Someone is going to get hurt.”

These responses usually come quickly—and often with strong judgment.

But here’s the thing: human relationships are rarely that simple.

Why Judgement Can be Harmful

Black-and-white statements about relationships may come from a place of care, but they can also create shame.

They can make someone question their own judgment, suppress their feelings, or feel like they’re “doing something wrong” simply by being in a dynamic that doesn’t fit traditional expectations.

That kind of shame isn’t helpful. It closes people off rather than helping them understand themselves more deeply.

How I view it

As an intern therapist, I don’t view situationships as inherently good or bad. Every situationship has its own context, history, and meaning.

Some may feel freeing. Some may feel confusing or unbalanced.Some may evolve into something more. Others may not.

There is no universal rule that applies to all of them, and it is never something to be embarrassed about!

What I Focus on in Therapy

My role is not to tell someone to immediately leave a situationship.

My role is to help explore questions like:

• How does this relationship feel for you?

• How are your needs and wants being met or unmet in the relationship?

• What does communication look like?

• What do you like about the relationship and what don't you like?

This isn’t about labeling the relationship. It’s about understanding your experience within it.

Moving from Judgement to Growth

Talking about any relationship (official or not) in therapy can provide so much personal growth. You learn more about attachment styles, communication and boundaries.

You don’t need to justify your relationship to deserve support.

Whether you’re in a situationship, a committed relationship, or something in between—your experience is valid, and it’s worth exploring with curiosity rather than judgment.

My Services

*Blog by MSW Intern Therapist Naomi Park

*Currently under supervision of Dr. Jennifer Vasquez (LCSW-S)