Question

If you are a therapist or psychologist and you are taking on a new client who has seen several therapists before and was “unsatisfied with all of them” what kind of things do you do so you’re ‘less likely’ to be the next one to go?

Answer 1

Building a strong therapeutic alliance and increasing the likelihood of a successful therapeutic relationship involves several important considerations:

1. Active listening and validation: Demonstrate active listening skills and validate the client's feelings and experiences. Show empathy and understanding to help the client feel heard and acknowledged.

2. Collaborative goal-setting: Involve the client in setting therapeutic goals and treatment plans. By working together, you can ensure that the client's needs and expectations are considered in the therapeutic process.

3. Establish trust and rapport: Building a strong therapeutic alliance is crucial. Be genuine, authentic, and transparent with the client to foster trust and rapport.

4. Address previous concerns: Encourage the client to share their previous experiences with therapy and explore the reasons behind their dissatisfaction. Address any concerns openly and honestly to show your commitment to understanding and meeting their needs.

5. Flexibility in therapeutic approach: Be willing to adapt your therapeutic approach to the client's preferences and needs. Different clients respond to different styles of therapy, so being flexible can increase the chances of a successful outcome.

6. Regular check-ins: Regularly check in with the client about their progress and how they feel about the therapy process. This allows you to address any emerging issues promptly.

7. Transparency about boundaries and expectations: Clearly communicate the therapeutic boundaries, confidentiality, and what the client can expect from the therapy sessions.

8. Reflect on your own practice: Be open to self-reflection and continuous improvement as a therapist. If a client does decide to leave, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

9. Refer when necessary: If you believe that the client's needs are better served by a different therapist or a different therapeutic approach, consider making a referral. A good therapist should prioritize the client's well-being over retaining them as a client.

Remember that the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one, and both the therapist and the client play essential roles in its success. Not every therapeutic relationship will work out, but by being attentive, empathetic, and adaptable, you can increase the chances of creating a positive and productive therapeutic experience for the client.