Ethics

I am so very sorry that this is how the relationship with your therapist has ended. You mention feeling angry, hurt, confused, and even abandoned. Given the scenario you presented, I can ... Read More

Thank you for reaching out with this honest question. I commend you for having the courage to admit this is happening and to seek counsel for it. You may be surprised to know that what ... Read More

There is something special and unique about the relationship between a person in therapy and his or her therapist. It is a professional relationship, one in which the therapist is providing ... Read More

“I’m trying to imagine ethics without an awareness of power. That would be like trying not to step on anyone’s toes, without an awareness of one’s feet.” —Susan Mikesic The ... Read More

The power spiral is a guide to using role power wisely and well, and is of particular use to therapists. There are four aspects to the power spiral for use with ethical decision-making: ... Read More

Popular wisdom suggests that a messy work space is the product of a creative and unique mind. At least one study has found support for this claim, noting that a messy space can be a source ... Read More

Thanks for the letter and your thoughtful questions. I am very pleased that you reached out, seeking advice on what to do. You ask if it’s possible to become dependent on therapy, and ... Read More

In the Showtime series Web Therapy, Lisa Kudrow plays a narcissistic therapist who administers questionable therapy over the Internet. Life often imitates art, and web-based therapy is ... Read More

Thanks for your thoughtful question. I’m going to do my best to answer it and to alleviate some of the concerns you have expressed. The most important thing to address here is your statement ... Read More

As more information becomes available about Elliot Rodgers, the man who allegedly killed six people in California, the media continues to focus on what his therapist did or did not do right. ... Read More

GoodTherapy.org is dedicated to ethical therapeutic practices, but the images people see in the media can color their perceptions of what therapy should and should not be. These portrayals ... Read More

“David, tell Randy you’re sorry.” “Sorry.” The mother takes 7-year-old David to another part of the playground. By the sound of the “saaaaawry,” ... Read More