It is reasonable to be cautious and mindful of your therapist's boundaries in a therapeutic relationship. Therapists are trained to maintain appropriate professional boundaries to create a safe and ethical therapeutic environment. While some level of warmth and rapport is essential in therapy, there are red flags in the situation you've described that warrant attention and consideration.
Extended Sessions: Therapists generally adhere to a set timeframe for sessions (usually around 50 minutes). If your therapist consistently extends sessions significantly beyond the agreed-upon time without discussing or compensating for the additional time, it can be a sign of boundary crossing.
Availability: While it's not uncommon for therapists to offer some form of support between sessions in emergencies or crisis situations, they should set clear limits on when and how clients can contact them outside of scheduled sessions. Encouraging you to reach out "anytime about anything" might blur the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship.
Personal Stories: While therapists might occasionally share relevant and brief personal stories to enhance the therapeutic process, it should be done with careful consideration and always with the client's best interests in mind. Therapists should avoid oversharing personal information that could compromise the focus on the client's needs and experiences.
Healthy therapeutic boundaries are crucial for the therapeutic alliance and the overall success of therapy. When boundaries are unclear or crossed, it can interfere with the therapeutic process and create ethical concerns.
If you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about your therapist's approach, it is essential to address these concerns openly with your therapist. You can express your feelings and ask for clarification about their intentions and therapeutic boundaries. A skilled and ethical therapist will be receptive to your feedback and should be willing to discuss and adjust their approach if necessary.
If, after discussing your concerns, you still feel uneasy or if the therapist does not respond appropriately, it may be worth considering finding a new therapist who adheres to professional boundaries more consistently. Your emotional well-being and trust in the therapeutic process are essential, and finding the right therapeutic fit is crucial for effective therapy.