The client-therapist relationship is a very intimate one, in that the client shares very personal information with the therapist. This can often lead to somewhat conflicting feelings, for the client. Therefore, to ensure that the client receives the maximum benefit from the therapy certain boundaries must be established. To maintain proper perspective and to avoid any perception of impropriety, it is important to remember that the therapist is here to be your health-care provider, not your friend. This does not mean that you may not like each other; it means that the relationship must stay on a professional level. While your thoughtfulness is always appreciated, gift giving should be avoided. Bartering is not an accepted method of payment for professional services; therefore, payment must be made by the means discussed in the Services & Pricing section.
Anytime you seek therapy to work with the difficulties in yourself or your relationships there are benefits and risks involved. The benefits can include the ability to manage or cope with your specific concerns and/or your interpersonal relationships in a healthier way. You may also gain a greater understanding of personal, interpersonal, and/or family goals and values. This understanding may lead the way to greater maturity and happiness as an individual, couple, or as a family. There may also be other benefits that come as you work at resolving your specific concerns such as a sense of peace and alleviation of guilt feelings.
Therapy can also be challenging and uncomfortable at times. Remembering and resolving an unpleasant event or relationship may cause intense feelings of fear, anger, sadness, and frustration. As you work to resolve personal issues or issues between family members, marital partners and/or other persons, you may experience discomfort and an increase in conflict. There may be changes in your relationships you had not originally intended. Most of the time the adage "It gets worse before it gets better" describes the scenario or maybe through the therapeutic process you have decided that a relationship is detrimental to your wellbeing and must end.
I will discuss with you the benefits and risks involved in your situation as we go through the therapeutic process. I encourage you to discuss with me any concerns you may have as you progress.
Remember this is a professional relationship. I am unable to add you as a friend on Twitter, Facebook, etc. due to the Therapist/Client relationship and due to The Association of American Counselors Ethics Regulations.