It is possible for a psychotherapist to bring up a question near the end of a session and express a desire to hear more about it, even if they are aware that the session is about to end and they have another appointment scheduled afterward. This situation can be confusing for the client because they may feel torn between wanting to address the therapist's question and being mindful of the session's time constraints.
There are several reasons why a psychotherapist might do this:
Genuine interest: The therapist may genuinely be interested in exploring a particular topic further and believes it could be essential for the client's progress. They might find it challenging to leave the topic unresolved and may want to explore it in more depth to better understand the client's experiences and emotions.
Therapeutic process: Therapists are trained to notice patterns and themes in a client's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Bringing up a question at the end of a session could be part of their therapeutic process to promote self-reflection and awareness in the client.
Planning for the next session: By introducing a question or topic at the end of the session, the therapist might be providing the client with something to consider or work on before the next session. It can help set the stage for future discussions and continuity of therapy.
However, it's essential for therapists to manage time effectively and respect the boundaries of the session. If the therapist brings up a significant question near the session's end, they should also be willing to acknowledge the limited time available and allow the client to decide whether they want to explore it briefly or table it for the next session. In such cases, therapists may assure the client that they will return to the topic in the next session if necessary.
Good communication between the therapist and the client is crucial. If the client feels confused or rushed, they should feel comfortable expressing their feelings to the therapist, and together, they can find a resolution that best serves the therapeutic process. It's also important for the client to feel that their concerns are valued and that the therapeutic relationship remains a safe space for open dialogue and understanding.