What If it doesn’t feel right…?
Remember, some stress is a normal part of therapy; it’s a vulnerable situation and the therapist will encourage you to work toward change in your life. It’s important to recognize the difference between short-term stress due to discussing vulnerable topics/minor disagreement or long-term distress that is interfering with your treatment progress.
Fit and therapist-client relationships are some of the strongest indicators of success in treatment and treatment adherence! It’s okay to not like your therapist after a few sessions.
Remember, you are not obligated to continue with someone if it doesn’t feel right, and you can continue to keep searching for a different provider.
Ask yourself:
Do you feel reasonably safe and connected with the therapist?
Does the therapist have the necessary skills, experience, and expertise to help you?
Is the therapist really listening to you? Are they asking enough questions?
Has the therapist asked what outcome you want from therapy -- how you want your life to be?
Do you feel satisfied with the therapist's resources?
Does what the therapist say make sense? Does it seem like bad advice?
Do you feel like you’re just spinning your wheels week after week?
Has the therapist crossed any boundaries?
Picture posted by Therapy Den on 10/7/2018
In a first session or prior to meeting, the counselor is obligated to provide you with a document that clearly states expectations for you and the provider. Read this carefully, and ask any questions you have. This process is called informed consent. Even after signing this, you have the right to discontinue at any time!
What do I do?
Recommend a rule of three: if you get to visit number 3 (after initial assessment) and you feel you have issues with the therapist that haven’t been resolved, you can walk away!
Listen to your gut: If you feel unsettled or that something is off, don’t ignore it!
YOU CAN TALK TO YOUR THERAPIST ABOUT IT!
At the very least, they can help you understand what other forms of therapy might suit you best.
They can help you in finding a therapist that is more suited for you. They may even have a referral to a colleague!
In clear cases where boundaries were crossed (e.g.., therapist tries to kiss the client, etc.), then the client should report the therapist to his/her/their licensing board..