It is generally not recommended for a close friend, including a psychologist friend, to be your therapist. There are several reasons why maintaining a professional boundary is essential in therapeutic relationships:
Objectivity: A therapist needs to maintain objectivity and impartiality to provide effective and unbiased treatment. Friends may have personal biases and emotions that can interfere with their ability to be objective during therapy.
Confidentiality: In a therapeutic relationship, confidentiality is crucial. Sharing personal and sensitive information with a friend, even if they are a psychologist, may not offer the same level of confidentiality and privacy as a formal therapeutic setting.
Dual Relationships: Engaging in both a professional and personal relationship with the same individual can lead to conflicts of interest and ethical dilemmas.
Boundaries: In therapy, clear boundaries are established to create a safe and professional space for the client. These boundaries might be challenging to maintain when the therapist and client already have a personal relationship.
Impact on Friendship: Mixing a therapeutic relationship with a friendship can complicate the dynamics between both roles, potentially leading to strain or damage in the friendship.
If you are seeking therapy or counseling, it's best to find a qualified mental health professional who is not a close friend to ensure that you receive the most appropriate and effective support. A professional therapist will be better equipped to maintain objectivity, confidentiality, and ethical standards while providing you with the help you need to address your concerns. If you're uncertain where to start, consider asking your psychologist friend for a referral to other qualified therapists who may be a better fit for your therapeutic needs.