Can a therapist have a friend as a client?

Client-therapist friendships can be unethical, according to codes of ethics from many bodies that govern therapists, including the American Psychological Association [APA]. By becoming friends with a client, a therapist can risk disciplinary action from governing bodies or losing licensure.

Can a family member be my therapist?

While not illegal, counseling one’s own family members is not advised. Consulting with a family member or friend close to the client as this could be viewed as a conflict of interest because one point of view can be taken over the other and can cloud the professionalism of the therapist.

Can a therapist see husband and wife separately?

Susan J. Leviton, MA, LMFT: Many therapists ask to see each partner separately at some point early in the treatment, perhaps even at the first session. Some make it a rule, while others decide on a case-by-case basis. There are even therapists who treat the couple by seeing each party separately for a period of time.

Can your therapist be a family friend?

Your therapist should not be a close friend because that would create what’s called a dual relationship, something that is unethical in therapy. For example, it is unethical for a therapist to treat a close friend or relative. It is also unethical for a therapist to have a sexual relationship with a client.

Can you be friends with a former therapist?

You might be wondering if your former therapist would even be allowed to be your friend, given how ethically rigorous the mental health field is. The answer is technically yes, but it’s generally inadvisable.

What to do when your client is resisting therapy?

“When the client is resisting the therapist and the therapist starts getting irritated with the client, then you have two people resisting each other,” he says. “That’s not therapy; that’s called war.” Instead, suggests Hanna, praise the client’s resistance.

Should you see the same therapist as a family member?

The answer is likely “perhaps” or “it depends how close you really are and how comfortable you feel.” But Ajjan is cautious of the practice. “I do not think it is a good idea to use the same therapist as a close friend or family member,” she advised.

Should you refer a friend to a therapist?

“There is a sense of comfort knowing that the therapist has been helpful and supportive to your friend, and that feeling of familiarity can help sharing personal information feel less awkward,” Ajjan said. “Searching for a therapist that is a good fit can also be time-consuming, and a referral can streamline the process.”

Can I refer a new client to another therapist?

The best resolution is to refer the new client to another therapist (if possible). For those of you who can refer this new client to another therapist, then the question arises as to how to do so in an ethical manner.