As a therapist, it's crucial to respond to a client expressing doubt or skepticism about the therapeutic process with empathy and understanding. The client's statement, "it's not going to work," indicates they might be feeling discouraged, frustrated, or uncertain about the effectiveness of therapy.
A more appropriate response from a therapist in this situation might be:
"I hear that you're feeling unsure about whether therapy will work for you. It's entirely normal to have doubts, and I want to assure you that it's okay to feel that way. Therapy can be a challenging process, and it's common to experience ups and downs along the way. If you'd like, we can talk more about your concerns and explore what you're hoping to achieve from therapy. Remember, you have the autonomy to make decisions about your treatment, and if you ever feel the need to cancel or adjust the frequency of sessions, please feel free to communicate that with me. Our primary focus is your well-being, and I'm here to support you in the best way possible."
In this response, the therapist acknowledges the client's feelings without dismissing them or making assumptions. They express empathy and normalize the experience of having doubts. Additionally, the therapist emphasizes that open communication is encouraged and that the client has agency in making decisions about their treatment.
Every client is unique, and therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach. A collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship is essential for clients to feel comfortable discussing their concerns and exploring ways to enhance the effectiveness of therapy. If a client expresses persistent doubts or a lack of progress, it may be essential to explore these issues further and possibly consider adjusting the treatment plan or exploring alternative therapeutic approaches.