The practice of psychotherapists calling their patients after a session is generally not common and is often discouraged in most therapeutic settings. There are several reasons for this:
Boundaries: Maintaining clear and professional boundaries is essential in the therapist-client relationship. Initiating contact outside of scheduled sessions can blur these boundaries and may lead to potential ethical concerns.
Therapeutic Space: The therapy session is a dedicated time for the client to focus on their concerns and explore their emotions and thoughts in a safe and supportive environment. By calling the client outside of the session, it can disrupt this therapeutic space and may not be conducive to the client's progress.
Client Autonomy: Clients should have autonomy over when and how they engage in therapy. Receiving unsolicited calls from the therapist might make some clients uncomfortable or may not align with their preferences for communication.
Misinterpretation: Phone calls can be easily misinterpreted or may lead to misunderstandings, especially without the context of a formal therapy session.
Confidentiality and Privacy: Communication outside of the therapy session might pose privacy concerns, as it may be challenging to ensure the conversation remains confidential and secure.
However, there can be some exceptions to this general practice:
Crisis Situations: In emergency situations or during a crisis, a therapist might reach out to check on the client's well-being and safety. Ensuring client safety is a priority in such cases.
Pre-scheduled Calls: Sometimes, therapists may schedule a follow-up call with a client to discuss specific issues or address administrative matters related to the therapy process.
Digital Communication Platforms: Some therapists may use secure online platforms for asynchronous communication, such as secure messaging systems, for brief check-ins or sharing relevant resources between sessions.
It's important to note that practices can vary depending on the therapist's theoretical orientation, the therapeutic approach used, and the specific guidelines and regulations in the therapist's professional organization or region. If you have any questions or concerns about communication practices with your therapist, it's best to discuss them openly during your therapy sessions.