How to Navigate a Situationship: Should You Stay, Move Forward, or Walk Away?

In a world of evolving relationship dynamics, the term situationship has entered the mainstream—and for good reason. A situationship is typically defined as a romantic or sexual connection that lacks clear boundaries, labels, or expectations. It can feel exciting, confusing, liberating, or even distressing, depending on your emotional needs and personal goals.

Whether you're finding yourself stuck in limbo or you're curious if your current dynamic qualifies as a situationship, this blog will guide you through how to recognize it, reflect on it, and decide how to move forward in a way that honors your emotional well-being.

What Is a Situationship?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a situationship exists somewhere between a friendship and a committed romantic relationship. It’s often undefined—lacking formal titles, exclusivity, or future-oriented conversations.

In some cases, people find comfort in this flexibility. But in others, especially when emotional needs go unmet, it can create confusion, insecurity, or even emotional distress. As a psychotherapist and certified sex therapist, I often help individuals and couples explore the psychological and relational impact of these kinds of modern relationship structures.

5 Signs You're in a Situationship

1. There’s no label — and no discussion about one.

2. Plans feel casual and last-minute, rarely involving deeper commitments.

3. You feel emotionally unfulfilled, even though physical intimacy may be present.

4. There’s a fear of asking "what are we?"

5. You sense stagnation, with no progression despite spending significant time together.

If any of these resonate, know that you’re not alone. Many people—especially those navigating modern dating cultures—find themselves in similar relational dynamics. Vogue even notes that situationships have become increasingly common as people delay commitment or struggle to find alignment in romantic goals.

Should You Stay or Go?

Deciding whether to remain in a situationship or progress it into something more defined requires deep self-inquiry and open communication. Ask yourself:

• Are my emotional and relational needs being met?

• Is there mutual respect and emotional safety in this connection?

• Have I communicated what I want, and have they done the same?

Sometimes, these dynamics can evolve into committed partnerships—especially when both parties are emotionally available and willing to have honest, intentional conversations. But in other cases, the healthiest choice is to lovingly step away and create space for a connection that aligns with your desires and values.

How to Move Forward

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of what to do next, therapy can offer a safe and non-judgmental space to process your feelings, identify patterns, and build confidence in your decision-making. In my private practice, I work with individuals and couples to explore the relational roots of emotional disconnection, attachment styles, and communication breakdowns that often fuel ambiguous dynamics like situationships.

Here are a few empowering steps to take:

• Get honest with yourself about what you want from a relationship.

• Set emotional boundaries and communicate them clearly.

• Reflect on attachment patterns that may lead you into or keep you in undefined relationships.

• Seek therapeutic support to reconnect with your authentic needs and voice.

Final Thoughts

Being in a situationship isn’t inherently wrong—but staying in one that consistently leaves you feeling uncertain, undervalued, or emotionally drained can be harmful. Whether you want clarity, closure, or a deeper connection, the first step is recognizing that you deserve to feel secure and seen in your relationships.

Ready to explore your relational patterns and develop deeper emotional clarity? I invite you to reach out and begin your therapy journey today. Together, we’ll work toward the meaningful connections you deserve.