How psychologists feel after meeting their patients can vary widely depending on several factors, including the nature of the session, the client's needs, the psychologist's therapeutic orientation, and the psychologist's own personal experiences and emotions. Here are some common emotions and feelings psychologists may experience after a session:
Fulfillment: Many psychologists feel a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction after a session, especially when they believe they have helped the client make progress, gain insights, or find relief from their difficulties.
Empathy and Compassion: Psychologists often experience empathy and compassion towards their clients, particularly when clients share their struggles and vulnerabilities during the session.
Curiosity: After a session, psychologists may feel curious about the client's unique experiences and thought processes, leading them to reflect on possible therapeutic interventions.
Concern: If the session addressed challenging or distressing issues, psychologists may feel concern for their clients' well-being and may think about appropriate ways to support them further.
Professional Responsibility: Psychologists typically take their professional responsibilities seriously and may feel a sense of responsibility towards their clients' progress and growth.
Self-Reflection: Psychologists might engage in self-reflection after a session to assess their therapeutic interventions, ensure they remained objective and non-judgmental, and consider any countertransference (their emotional reactions to the client) that may have occurred.
Emotional Impact: Some sessions can be emotionally intense, and psychologists may need to process their emotional reactions afterward to maintain their own well-being and avoid burnout.
Satisfaction in helping others: Many psychologists are drawn to the field because they have a genuine desire to help others, and successful sessions can reinforce this sense of purpose and satisfaction.
It's essential to recognize that psychologists, like all individuals, have their unique emotional responses, and their feelings after a session can vary from one client to another. They undergo training and engage in self-care practices to manage their emotions effectively and maintain a professional, supportive environment for their clients. Additionally, psychologists often have supervision or consultation with colleagues to discuss cases and seek support when needed.