Are You Trying to Show Appreciation To Your Therapist?: Ways to Ethically Show That You Appreciate Them!
As we end the year, it is so important to remember that therapists (regardless of their training or licensure) are guided by their professional ethics. For most therapists and their ethics, it is unethical to receive material gifts (especially those of high monetary value) from clients. Receiving gifts can create fogginess in the therapeutic relationship and for most (including Josie) it is good to avoid all gifts of monetary value all together!
Are you thinking about how you want to show appreciation even though gifts are unethical? If so, here are three ways to show appreciation to your therapist this holiday season!
Words of Affirmation and Appreciation in session: Words of gratitude can go a long way! It can be so powerful and impactful for therapists to hear about the value of the work they give their clients. Even though this is in NO WAY A REQUIREMENT OR SOMETHING THERAPISTS MAY ASK FOR, it can replace a monetary gift while still helping your therapist practice ethically.
Respecting Boundaries and Guidelines set by your Therapist: Another amazing way to show your therapist your appreciation ethically is by respecting the boundaries or guidelines they set. Whether it is their phone or office hours, their email/text policy, or the information listed in their paperwork, it always goes the extra mile to make sure you understand these guidelines so your therapist is also able to maintain work life balance!
Referring Others to your Therapist: If you feel like someone you know is a good fit, a referral to that therapist and/or agency could be a great way to show appreciation (no pressure or obligation)! Referrals can help your therapist’s practice grow and flourish and since you know your therapist and the work they do, a referral can go a long way!
If you have questions regarding what is ethical in therapy, ask your therapist! Especially due to the training and different ethical codes, there may be some slight differences from therapist to therapist so it does not hurt to ask!
