Like Gina I, too, wonder if it is necessary to talk about the why. Although I agree with Marty that the response given may be more revealing than talking about the subject itself I also think that sometimes it is not necessary or the best choice. It is a matter of knowing whether it is really an issue for the client or one the therapist has decided is an issue. I believe the client knows best in regards to his/her own concerns. The client may only be able to say "I just don't want to discuss this with you" and it may be the only response they can give at the time. However, this does not mean that the client will not be open to discussion at a later date and may return to the issue on his/her own. The client is somehow protecting his/herself, setting his/her boundaries whether fully aware of it or not. If the therapist accepts that response then the client knows that boundaries are respected. When my therapist asked a question, re sexual issues, which I did not want to discuss I told him that it was "none of his business" and I also said the question was way too personal. His response was that he got to ask personal questions. I kind of laughed at that reply - he was right, after all therapy is a personal thing and looks at some intimate issues. However, we have never gone back to that particular topic and I still believe it is one that is not necessary to discuss. At the same time, we have talked about other things which are related to sexuality. I know that I can bring up issues around sexuality, that my therapist is comfortable with my doing so and that my boundaries will be respected. How the questions are asked is of importance. My therapist makes statements such as "I just had this thought and I'm wondering" or "you don't have to agree with this, but I was wondering if" or "I'm just going to put this out for you to consider, you don't have to respond to it, just think about it." Such statements leaves the door open for the client to respond or not, the client is given the chance to agree or disagree and so on. Another long response. I guess I have some concerns in regards to whether the therapist respects the clients decision to not discuss and issue and even asking why can be inappropriate. No means No.
Replies:
There are no replies to this message.
|
| Behavior OnLine Home Page | Disclaimer |
Copyright © 1996-2004 Behavior OnLine, Inc. All rights reserved.