I can provide some general insights into potential reasons why a therapist might shift their boundaries with a client.
Boundary confusion: Sometimes, in therapeutic relationships, boundaries can become blurred, leading to a shift in the dynamics of the relationship. This can happen when a therapist unintentionally starts to disclose personal information or becomes overly friendly with the client, creating a more informal or friend-like atmosphere.
Countertransference: Therapists are also human beings, and they can experience countertransference, which refers to the therapist's emotional reactions towards the client. In some cases, a therapist may start to develop feelings of friendship towards a client due to positive transference or unresolved personal issues.
Ethical considerations: Therapists are bound by professional ethics that emphasize maintaining appropriate boundaries with clients. Developing a personal friendship with a client can lead to ethical dilemmas, as it may compromise the objectivity and effectiveness of the therapy.
Self-disclosure reassessment: Therapists might initially believe that sharing certain personal experiences can be beneficial in building rapport and trust with the client. However, upon reflection or supervision, they might reconsider the impact of such disclosures on the therapeutic process and decide to reestablish more traditional boundaries.
Client's best interest: Sometimes, a therapist may realize that the development of a personal friendship could hinder the client's progress or therapeutic goals. In such cases, they may choose to re-establish professional boundaries to maintain a focus on the client's well-being.
If you find that your therapist has changed their approach or boundary, it could be essential to discuss this openly during one of your therapy sessions. Open communication can help you both understand the reasons behind the change and explore how it might impact your therapeutic journey. It's essential to address any concerns or feelings you may have about this shift in the therapeutic relationship.
If you feel uncomfortable with the changes or find that the therapeutic relationship is no longer working for you, you have the right to consider seeking support from a different therapist who better aligns with your needs and preferences. Therapy should be a safe and supportive space, and finding the right therapist is crucial to your overall well-being and progress.