Edge of the Couch Working "Harder" Than Your Client
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May 14, 2025 The podcast dives into the belief that therapists shouldn't work harder than their clients. The hosts challenge this notion, discussing how privilege and trauma shape effort in therapy. They also explore the complexities of client engagement and the often misunderstood dynamics of therapeutic relationships. Silence's role in fostering deeper conversations is highlighted, alongside the need for therapists to adapt their approaches. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes the importance of meeting clients where they are emotionally while redefining the therapist-client dynamic.
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Ambiguity of "Work Harder" Phrase
- The phrase "don't work harder than the client" is ambiguous and often used to comfort therapists.
- The definition of "work" varies greatly depending on client context, making the phrase limiting.
Examples Where Therapist Works Harder
- Working with children who have selective mutism requires extensive therapist effort in engagement without verbalization.
- Clients with limited trust may appear resistant but are working hard just by showing up and giving little.
Invisible Client Effort Matters
- Clients' external engagement may look minimal but can reflect immense internal effort.
- Factors like trauma, anxiety, and logistics make showing up to therapy hard work.