When Clients Say They Aren't Getting Anything Out of Therapy
whatshot 20 snips
Mar 22, 2023
This discussion dives into the complexities of client dissatisfaction in therapy. It highlights how therapists can navigate moments when clients feel stagnant by fostering empathy and open communication. The conversation explores the significance of managing expectations and recognizing subtle progress. They also examine the impact of systemic issues like capitalism and patriarchy on personal struggles, urging a deeper understanding of emotions in therapy. The journey is portrayed as non-linear, emphasizing the importance of trust and strong therapeutic relationships.
40:45
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Clients' Differing Views on Change
Clients often say therapy isn't working when they don't see quick life changes or personal progress.
Therapists and clients sometimes measure change differently, causing frustration or misunderstanding.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Set Realistic Therapy Expectations
Clarify therapy expectations early and discuss realistic goals, especially with limited sessions.
Help clients understand what is achievable, offering smaller progress steps as valuable.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Address Therapy Resistance Patterns
Explore if clients are minimizing positive changes or assuming they will fail to understand their therapy resistance.
Validate their fears and use thoughtful dialogue to help reshape their perspective on progress.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
This week’s episode is all about navigating the moment when a client can’t (or won’t?) see the impact and/or benefits of therapy. We share all of the ways that we respond in these types of hard moments. We also share how we have learned to reframe these moments as opportunities for deepening the relationship with the client and for understanding them better.
An important takeaway from this episode: there are realistic limitations of therapy. It is an individualistic endeavour in a capitalist, white supremacist, patriarchal society. There are some things that therapy cannot help change for our clients and when they name that therapy isn’t working for them, it’s important that we acknowledge how true that is.
Alison McCleary www.alpenglowcounselling.com @alpenglow_counselling on Instagram
Jordan Pickell www.jordanpickellcounselling.ca @jordanpickellcounselling on Instagram
Edge of the Couch www.edgeofthecouch.com @edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram
We have partnered with Janeapp, an all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign up.
We're taking the couch on the road! Join us between May 9th and May 24th, we'll be heading to 8 Canadian cities for a LIVE episode recording and a chance to connect with other therapists in your area. Space is limited, so snag your ticket before it's too late! For more information, visit us on Instagram @edgeofthecouchpod. We hope to see you there!
Join us on Patreon for bonus content at www.patreon.com/edgeofthecouch, share your thoughts and questions via DM on Instagram, or email us at connect@edgeofthecouch.com.
We have partnered with Janeapp, our favourite all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign-up for a free one-month grace period on your new account.
Edge of the Couch