Therapists are human beings with their own emotions and feelings, so it is possible for them to experience a range of emotions, including moments of frustration, annoyance, or even dislike towards certain clients. However, ethical therapists are trained to handle these emotions professionally and are well aware of the importance of maintaining objectivity, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude toward their clients.
Therapists are trained to understand that their feelings and reactions are valuable sources of information that can help them better understand their own biases, triggers, and countertransference (the therapist's emotional response to the client). When therapists experience negative feelings toward a client, it is essential for them to reflect on these emotions, discuss them in supervision (consultation with another professional), and explore how they may be influencing the therapeutic process.
Therapists are bound by a strict code of ethics and confidentiality, which means they will not share their personal feelings about a client with the client themselves. It is not appropriate for a therapist to tell a client that they dislike them, as this could be harmful to the therapeutic relationship and the client's well-being.
If a therapist finds that they are struggling to maintain a positive therapeutic relationship with a client, they may consider seeking guidance from their supervisor or consult with other professionals to ensure they are providing the best care possible for the client. In some cases, if the therapist feels they are unable to be objective or provide effective treatment, they may ethically refer the client to another therapist who may be a better fit.
Ultimately, the primary focus of therapy is on the client's well-being, growth, and healing. A professional therapist will always prioritize the client's needs and work towards providing a safe and supportive environment for the therapeutic process to unfold.