This thread has me scared how much time my new T might take off. My longtime T usually only took off a week in the summer and a week for Christmas. However, she also only works Monday through Thursday, so maybe that makes it easier to take less vacation time. New T was away for two weeks around Thanksgiving, but part of that was due to a conference. She told me she'll come back a day or two after Christmas. I don't think I would like it if she was off 25% of the time like your T. That seems excessive - and I'm very careful not to be needy (I don't call her between sessions, she hasn't offered text or email, and I haven't demanded that). If she went on as many vacations as yours, I would live in constant dread that she'd tell me she was going away at each appointment. I would never convey my distress, but I would not be happy.

I think your T is taking this time off as she transitions to retirement, not for self care. I mean, she's only working 3 days a week. Self care isn't the issue. She's trying to have her cake and eat it too, in my opinion, and I don't think you should feel bad looking elsewhere if her change in lifestyle is negatively affecting you.