In general, a therapist should not terminate therapy simply because a client expresses that they are feeling worse. Feeling worse or experiencing temporary setbacks can be a natural part of the therapeutic process, especially when addressing difficult or painful issues. Therapy can sometimes stir up emotions or bring up challenging memories before progress can be made.
A responsible and ethical therapist will typically respond to a client expressing distress or feeling worse by:
Exploring the Reasons: The therapist will explore with the client the reasons behind the worsening feelings. This helps both the client and the therapist gain insight into what might be triggering the distress and how to address it effectively.
Providing Support: The therapist will offer support, empathy, and validation to the client during this difficult time. They will work collaboratively to understand and manage the distressing emotions.
Adjusting the Approach: If the therapy is causing significant distress, the therapist might consider modifying the therapeutic approach or techniques to better suit the client's needs and comfort level.
Creating a Safety Plan: If the client's distress is severe, the therapist may help the client create a safety plan to manage crises and ensure their well-being.
Assessing Suitability: In some cases, a therapist might assess if they are the best fit for the client's needs. If the therapeutic relationship isn't working well or there is a mismatch in therapeutic approaches, the therapist might discuss the possibility of referring the client to another therapist.
Termination of therapy is typically a collaborative decision made between the therapist and the client. If a therapist ever suggests termination due to the client feeling worse, it might be essential for the client to explore the reasons behind this recommendation and consider whether it aligns with their best interests.
However, it's important to note that if a client poses a risk to themselves or others, or if the therapist determines that they are not able to provide the appropriate help required, they may have a professional obligation to refer the client to another mental health professional or a more suitable level of care. This decision is usually made with the client's safety and well-being as the primary concern.