21. Navigating Personal Conflicts: When Client’s Beliefs Challenges Your Own Identity or Values

Jeanene is joined by a group of colleagues to navigate a complex case involving a client who strongly expresses views opposing the therapist's identity and rights, making it challenging for the therapist to remain neutral and address more relevant therapeutic topics. The discussion delves into exploring the client’s treatment goals and understanding the underlying issues, finding alternative interests and relationships to diversify his discussion, and even referring out for better support. Ultimately, therapists should acknowledge that you might not be the right fit for everyone and should remain open to evolving therapeutic situations, especially in the context of societal changes and polarizing events, and be willing to adjust their approach accordingly.

 

“I can't just sit here and agree with every option you throw at me, because that wouldn't really be therapy anyway. If that's something that's important to you, you know, we want to get you to someone who can actually give that to you. And then it allows him to actually decide what he really wants to do. He's got two options, he's gonna be like, I can get back into discussing therapy goals, and we can talk about maybe there's some other outlets, you can talk about that specifically with, and we can work on these other things. But if that doesn't work for you, that's valid. But then there's other options. He's gonna have to decide, okay, you know, I want to stay with you. Because I've been with you for a few years, I'm comfortable with you. We can work on how you get that need met somewhere else? I mean, I guess you would kind of do that with a lot of things, even politics, you're trying to get this need met through me. And that's not really a therapist's need, we can talk about it, we can support it. But really, we want to figure out how to get that need met in your environment.” - Michelle Scott

 

What you’ll learn from this episode:

 

• Therapists may encounter cases where clients hold views opposing their own beliefs that may challenge their neutrality in the therapy room.

• Therapists should explore clients' treatment goals and needs, including potential underlying issues driving their focus on specific topics, like politics.

• Referring a client out can be a valid and ethical decision, especially if the therapist feels they cannot adequately meet the client's needs or if it impacts their own well-being.

• Seeking consultation and support from colleagues is beneficial in navigating complex cases or ethical dilemmas.

• Documentation of the decision-making process, including reasons for referral, is important for the therapist's protection and for ensuring transparency in client care.

Connect with Jeanene:

 

Join a clinical consultation group: https://oasisfortherapists.thrivecart.com/enrollment

Learn more about clinical consultation groups: https://collaboasis.com/

Join my free therapist Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/oasispcgt

Connect on LInkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeanene-wolfe-lcsw-64042220a/