Every therapist's reaction to a client taking a brief call during therapy may vary, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, it's essential to understand some general considerations regarding this situation.
Therapists are trained to be understanding and non-judgmental, recognizing that clients have their unique needs and circumstances. If a client needs to take a brief call during a session, many therapists will handle it with patience and empathy. They might use the opportunity to discuss the situation with the client and explore what prompted the call, as it could be relevant to the therapeutic process.
However, it's essential for clients to be mindful of the impact that taking a call during therapy might have on the session and the therapeutic relationship:
Distraction: Answering a call can disrupt the flow of the therapy session and may hinder progress. The interruption might take away from the time available for meaningful discussions and processing.
Privacy and Confidentiality: Therapy sessions are intended to be private and confidential spaces where clients can feel safe to share their thoughts and feelings. Taking a call might compromise the confidentiality of the session.
Client's Best Interest: Therapy is a collaborative process, and both the therapist and the client work together to achieve the best possible outcomes. If a client's behavior during the session interferes with their progress, the therapist may bring it up for discussion.
Communication: If a client anticipates an urgent call or feels that they might need to take one during the session, it's best to communicate this with the therapist at the beginning of the session. This way, both parties can agree on how to handle the situation if it arises.
Respect for Boundaries: Demonstrating respect for the therapy session's boundaries and guidelines can help create a more effective and productive therapeutic environment.
If there's a specific reason why a client might need to take calls during therapy sessions regularly, it's a good idea to discuss this with the therapist openly. In some cases, there may be extenuating circumstances that can be accommodated with mutual understanding and flexibility.
Ultimately, therapists aim to create a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere for their clients. If there are concerns about taking calls during therapy, it's best to discuss them openly with the therapist to ensure that the therapy process remains beneficial and productive for both parties.