It is frustrating when your trust is violated by the therapist you thought would be the source of solace and good health. Common acts that should raise alarm include control, manipulation and exploitation. You should consider it therapy abuse if the things you will be engaged in are not in your best interest. A feeling of dependency beyond professional level should alert you that something is wrong.
The security and safety that come with therapy should not translate into dual relationship with the therapist. Even as you respect the guidance and opinion of the therapist, professional boundaries must be maintained. Adults are abused as much as children are. This level of vulnerability requires quick action to save the victim from long lasting damage and loss of personal confidence.
As a client, you should watch out for both male and female therapists. The most common form of violation is sexual exploitation. Some of the victims of abused therapy procedures have ended up in hospitals nursing depression while others have attempted suicide. There are cases of victims who actually committed suicide.
Clients are advised to clearly understand their expectations and the treatment method. Your gut feelings will tell you if something is wrong. In such a case, make a quick decision to stop and seek the services from another person or an alternative procedure. Full knowledge and a second opinion gives you a clear picture of what to expect.
It is easy to spot unprofessional conduct by your therapist. Therapists who discuss personal matters, sensitive topics and personal lives are unethical and possibly abusive. You should quit if the initial sessions feel violating and abusive. It prevents the situation from getting out of hand.
A session with your therapist should not result in a feeling of shame, intimidation, degradation or humiliation. It is supposed to lead to healing and relief. Therapists who make suggestive and erotic comments should be avoided. Acts like winking, kissing, hugging or sexual intercourse are abusive.
A therapist should not pressure you to make any decision or engage in an act that makes you feel uncomfortable. Calls, emails, text messages or meetings outside the office indicate unprofessional behavior and point to abusive relationships. Attention needs to be on your personality and achievements other than your dressing or looks. Comments like you are beautiful and sexy are the first steps towards abuse.
Regardless of the fact that you need assistance, it must remain at professional level. Avoid a scenario or therapist who makes you feel like you need him or her instead of his professional services. Some make it appear like only he or she can solve your problem. Evaluate the anxiety that comes whenever you miss a session. It could indicate unhealthy dependence.
The people to run to in case of abuse are close friends, parents and spouses. There are organizations with resourceful websites and personnel who will assist you overcome the challenge. Change your therapist at the earliest opportunity if you detect abuse. There are legal channels to deal with abusive professionals including police, professional bodies or a private attorney. No violation should go unreported.
The security and safety that come with therapy should not translate into dual relationship with the therapist. Even as you respect the guidance and opinion of the therapist, professional boundaries must be maintained. Adults are abused as much as children are. This level of vulnerability requires quick action to save the victim from long lasting damage and loss of personal confidence.
As a client, you should watch out for both male and female therapists. The most common form of violation is sexual exploitation. Some of the victims of abused therapy procedures have ended up in hospitals nursing depression while others have attempted suicide. There are cases of victims who actually committed suicide.
Clients are advised to clearly understand their expectations and the treatment method. Your gut feelings will tell you if something is wrong. In such a case, make a quick decision to stop and seek the services from another person or an alternative procedure. Full knowledge and a second opinion gives you a clear picture of what to expect.
It is easy to spot unprofessional conduct by your therapist. Therapists who discuss personal matters, sensitive topics and personal lives are unethical and possibly abusive. You should quit if the initial sessions feel violating and abusive. It prevents the situation from getting out of hand.
A session with your therapist should not result in a feeling of shame, intimidation, degradation or humiliation. It is supposed to lead to healing and relief. Therapists who make suggestive and erotic comments should be avoided. Acts like winking, kissing, hugging or sexual intercourse are abusive.
A therapist should not pressure you to make any decision or engage in an act that makes you feel uncomfortable. Calls, emails, text messages or meetings outside the office indicate unprofessional behavior and point to abusive relationships. Attention needs to be on your personality and achievements other than your dressing or looks. Comments like you are beautiful and sexy are the first steps towards abuse.
Regardless of the fact that you need assistance, it must remain at professional level. Avoid a scenario or therapist who makes you feel like you need him or her instead of his professional services. Some make it appear like only he or she can solve your problem. Evaluate the anxiety that comes whenever you miss a session. It could indicate unhealthy dependence.
The people to run to in case of abuse are close friends, parents and spouses. There are organizations with resourceful websites and personnel who will assist you overcome the challenge. Change your therapist at the earliest opportunity if you detect abuse. There are legal channels to deal with abusive professionals including police, professional bodies or a private attorney. No violation should go unreported.
