The relationship between a therapist and their client is ideally based on trust, honesty, and the therapist's commitment to helping the client achieve their therapeutic goals. While therapists do rely on their clients' regular appointments for their livelihood, this does not necessarily mean they would compromise their ethical responsibilities or say what the client wants to hear just to keep them coming back.
Therapists are bound by professional ethics and guidelines, which prioritize the well-being of the client above all else. These ethics include principles such as beneficence (promoting the client's welfare), non-maleficence (avoiding harm to the client), autonomy (respecting the client's decisions and choices), and fidelity (maintaining trust and honesty with the client).
In a therapeutic setting, a responsible and competent therapist will:
Be Objective: Therapists are trained to maintain objectivity and avoid personal biases. Their goal is to provide an unbiased and balanced perspective to help clients gain insight into their feelings and experiences.
Offer Constructive Feedback: Therapists may challenge clients' beliefs or thought patterns when necessary to facilitate personal growth and change. They provide feedback to encourage positive changes in the client's life.
Be Honest and Transparent: Therapists should be honest and transparent with their clients, even if it involves discussing difficult or uncomfortable topics. They do not manipulate the client or simply tell them what they want to hear.
Focus on Client's Well-being: A therapist's primary focus is on the client's well-being and progress. They tailor their approach to meet the individual needs of each client, working collaboratively to achieve therapeutic goals.
Encourage Self-Reflection: Therapists aim to help clients explore their feelings and experiences, fostering self-awareness and personal insight.
Set Appropriate Boundaries: Therapists establish professional boundaries to ensure a safe and therapeutic environment for the client. This includes not engaging in dual relationships or exploiting the therapeutic relationship for personal gain.
While therapists rely on regular appointments to maintain their practice, their ethical commitment is to provide genuine support and assistance to their clients. Honesty and objectivity are essential components of effective therapy, and responsible therapists prioritize their clients' well-being throughout the therapeutic process. If you ever feel uncomfortable or suspect unethical behavior from a therapist, it is essential to address your concerns or seek a second opinion.