It's natural to feel concerned about your therapist when you know they've been out sick, and it's not crossing a boundary to express your care and concern for their well-being. Therapists, like anyone else, can experience health issues or personal challenges that may temporarily impact their ability to work. They are also human beings who appreciate empathy and compassion.
However, the appropriateness of asking your therapist about their well-being depends on the specific therapeutic relationship and the therapeutic approach they follow. Some therapists maintain a more formal boundary between themselves and their clients, while others are more open to discussing personal matters to a limited extent.
Here are a few things to consider:
Therapist's Style: If your therapist generally shares more personal information or maintains a more open and casual therapeutic relationship, it might be more appropriate to ask about her well-being. However, if your therapist follows a more traditional or formal approach, they might not offer personal details about their life.
Timing and Setting: Consider the context of your conversation. If your therapist has returned to work, it may be more appropriate to ask about her well-being now. However, if she is still recovering or the information has not been shared, it's best to respect her privacy until she feels comfortable discussing it.
Empathy without Probing: Even if you don't directly ask about her health, you can express your empathy and concern during your therapy session. A simple statement like, "I heard you were sick, and I hope you're feeling better now," can show that you care without prying into personal details.
Boundaries and Therapeutic Focus: Remember that therapy is primarily about your well-being and growth. While a healthy therapeutic relationship includes mutual respect and care, the focus should generally be on your needs and concerns.
If you are unsure about whether to bring up the topic or how to approach it, you can discuss your feelings about her absence during your next session. Your therapist will likely appreciate your consideration and can guide you in navigating this situation appropriately. Ultimately, the decision to share personal information lies with your therapist, and they will disclose what they feel is ethically appropriate and conducive to the therapeutic process.