If a client were to express strong negative emotions or resistance during their first therapy session, therapists and psychologists would typically respond with empathy, understanding, and professionalism. Here's how they might react:
Remaining Calm and Non-Judgmental: Therapists are trained to maintain a calm and non-judgmental demeanor in the face of strong emotions or resistance. They understand that clients may have various reasons for feeling this way and that it is a natural part of the therapeutic process for some individuals.
Exploring the Emotions: The therapist would gently explore the client's feelings of hatred or resistance. They might ask open-ended questions to understand the underlying reasons for these emotions. It could be related to past negative experiences, fear of therapy, or discomfort in discussing certain topics.
Validating the Emotions: The therapist would acknowledge the client's feelings without being defensive. They might say something like, "It sounds like you're feeling a lot of anger towards me or this process, and that's okay. I'm here to listen and understand."
Creating a Safe Environment: Therapists aim to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable expressing their emotions. They might reassure the client that their feelings are valid and that therapy is a confidential space to explore and work through these emotions.
Discussing the Client's Goals and Expectations: The therapist would discuss the client's goals and expectations for therapy. Understanding the client's motivations for seeking therapy can help address any concerns or misalignments from the outset.
Assessing Suitability: If the client continues to express strong resistance or unwillingness to engage in therapy, the therapist might explore whether therapy is the right approach for them at this moment. They may discuss alternative options or refer the client to a different mental health professional if necessary.
Building Rapport: Building a positive therapeutic alliance is crucial. Therapists might take extra care to establish rapport with the client, demonstrating empathy, understanding, and respect for their feelings and concerns.
Educating about the Therapeutic Process: Sometimes, clients may have misconceptions about therapy or unrealistic expectations. Therapists may use this opportunity to educate the client about the therapeutic process and what they can expect from it.
Being Mindful of Countertransference: Therapists are trained to be aware of their own emotions and reactions in response to clients. If the client's hostility triggers any personal feelings in the therapist (countertransference), they will explore these reactions in supervision or personal therapy to ensure they do not impact the therapeutic relationship.
Assessing Risk and Safety: If the client's emotions are intense and pose a risk to themselves or others, the therapist will assess the level of risk and take appropriate action, such as creating a safety plan or involving other professionals if necessary.
Remember that therapists are professionals who have encountered a wide range of emotions and reactions from clients. Their primary goal is to provide a supportive and healing environment for their clients, even when faced with challenging emotions in the early stages of therapy.