How To Handle Therapy Abuse

By Lucia Weeks


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.

Violation may come from either a male or female therapist. Sexual exploitation is the most common form of abuse. Violation has caused many victims to be admitted into hospitals because of depression. Others have attempted suicide while a significant percentage has succeeded. This points at the need to take quick and decisive action.

Before engaging a therapist, have a clear understanding of what you need. Follow your instincts or gut feeling and make quick decisions. If you do not have confidence in the actions of your current therapist, seek an alternative. A second opinion will also inform you of what to expect from a procedure.

There are behaviors that will signal unprofessional conduct. A therapist who discusses other clients, his personal life or uncomfortable topics is likely to be abusive. If you feel hurt or violated during the initial sessions, it is time to quit. This will ensure that the situation does not get out of hand.

Therapists who make you feel ashamed, intimidated, humiliated and degraded are abusing your vulnerability. This is a healing process and should make you feel better. Erotic and suggestive comments are signs of trouble ahead. Winking, hugging, kissing and sexual acts signal trouble.

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.

Parents, spouses and close friends remain your solace in case you are violated. Support organizations have setup resourceful websites to assist victims and offer directions. A change of therapist is recommended at the earliest opportunity. There are legal channels to seek redress including contacting your attorney, reporting to the professional body that regulates therapists and making a statement to the police. There is no violation that is too insignificant to be ignored.




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