Sunday, December 14, 2014

How To Handle Therapy Abuse

By Lucia Weeks


Violation by a therapist is the worst form of abused trust. It is a huge let down considering that you expect them to guide you into safety and good health. You should be concerned when you sense manipulation, control or exploitation. Therapy abuse is any act that does not serve your best interest. Concern should be raised if dependency goes beyond professional level.

Problems arise when dual relationships develop in the course of treatment. While the opinion and guidance of therapists is appreciated, it must respect professional ethics and boundaries. Adults are as vulnerable to abuse as children. Victims should take quick action to stop the situation from escalating. Alternative treatment is required lest the victim suffers due to confidence crisis.

Abusive professionals are both male and female. Sexual exploitation is the most common form with minors being at the greatest risk. Failure to report the cases or seek alternative assistance may send the victim to hospital due to depression with numerous cases of attempted suicide and actual suicide.

To avoid or limit abuse, professionals suggest that you follow your gut feelings. This means that, if it feels wrong, it probably is wrong and requires review. Seek the assistance of another therapist or confide in a person you trust. This helps you clarify if the procedure is right and whether it will deliver desired results.

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.

A session with your therapist should not result in a feeling of shame, intimidation, degradation or humiliation. It is supposed to lead to healing and relief. Therapists who make suggestive and erotic comments should be avoided. Acts like winking, kissing, hugging or sexual intercourse are abusive.

There should be no pressure to make hasty decision or join activities that you regard as uncomfortable. Any meeting, email, call or text message that does not stick to professional ethics, working hours and office space is the beginning of trouble. Personal compliments like you are beautiful and sexy are suspect since therapists should concentrate on professional achievement and the healing process.

A therapist must maintain professional distance. Your vulnerability is likely to blind you into his or her trap. Focus should never shift to him instead of his professional services. The procedure should be standardized instead of appearing like only him or her has the solution to your problem. Do not feel anxious whenever you miss a session. If any anxiety crops up, it should be natural.

A close friend, spouse or parent should be the first person to run to. There are therapy exploitation websites and organization to help you overcome the challenge. The sites give you link to resourceful individuals or crucial information to help you deal with it. It is advisable to talk to another therapist. The legal channels available include reporting to the police, attorney as well as filing a complaint with his or her professional body. Even the slightest violation should be reported.




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