The perception of whether ending a therapy session early is considered rude to the client can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the client's individual perspective. It's essential to remember that therapists are professionals who prioritize their clients' well-being, and there can be valid reasons for ending a session early. Here are some scenarios to consider:
Emergency or safety concerns: If the therapist determines that the client is in immediate danger or poses a risk to themselves or others, they might need to end the session early to take appropriate actions, such as contacting emergency services or ensuring the client's safety.
Pre-scheduled time constraints: Sometimes, therapists have a tight schedule and must adhere to specific session lengths. This is usually communicated to the client in advance, and it's not meant to be rude but a practical necessity to maintain their schedule and be fully present for each client.
Therapist's own well-being: Therapists are humans too, and they might have personal emergencies or situations that require them to end a session early. While this is rare, it's essential for therapists to prioritize their well-being to provide the best care for their clients.
Progression and containment: In certain therapeutic modalities, the therapist may intentionally end a session early to allow the client time to process the session's content or to contain strong emotions that emerged during the session.
However, it's crucial for therapists to communicate clearly and sensitively with their clients if a session needs to end early, explaining the reasons whenever possible. Clients may feel disappointed or frustrated if sessions are consistently cut short without proper explanation or communication.
Good therapists will take their clients' feelings into account and handle situations like this with empathy and professionalism. Open communication and a strong therapeutic alliance are essential in navigating potential misunderstandings or concerns related to ending a session early. If a client ever feels uncomfortable or unsure about the therapist's actions, they should feel encouraged to discuss it openly in a subsequent session.