Psychology In Seattle Podcast

Firing Clients and Taking Too Much Care of Yourself

5 snips
May 2, 2025
This discussion dives into the tough choice of terminating client relationships for safety reasons, shedding light on the importance of therapist boundaries. The episode also explores emotional expression in therapy, particularly for those with borderline personality disorder. Listeners will find insights on the transformative effects of the pandemic on social life and how nostalgia can influence self-care. Personal stories offer a deeper understanding of the balance between self-acceptance and meeting our emotional needs.
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ADVICE

Prioritize Therapist Safety

  • Terminate therapy when a client threatens your physical safety; prioritizing your safety is essential.
  • Use disclosure statements to set boundaries early, helping manage client expectations and reduce guilt later.
INSIGHT

Distinguish Anger from Abuse

  • Not all hostile client behaviors require termination; some situations are salvageable with experience and training.
  • Anger management problems differ from abusive behaviors, impacting treatment approach and referral decisions.
ADVICE

Use Clear Safety Policies

  • Include safety and termination policies in client disclosure statements, especially for clients with concerning behavior.
  • Clearly communicate non-negotiable boundaries regarding therapist safety to prevent misunderstandings.
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