Bias in therapy question
What is the ethical standing for therapist who disagree with their clients point of view?
I'm honestly wondering how to find a therapist who won't be judgmental about my personal stance on current event topics. I don't feel comfortable talking about what is causing me anxiety unless I know the therapist won't be bias against me for having a personal issue with my opinions.
I have seen therapists in the past that made it clear where they stand on religion, morals, etc. And I was unable to open up about my trauma.
I want to talk about current events with someone who will respect my personal chocies. I don't feel it's possible to find someone without exposing myself and risking them making me feel wrong and shaming me. Which are feelings I'm trying to work through because of past trauma. I don't want to experience more anxiety by talking to someone who cannot respect my voice.
@LoneWolf1986 Although I'm not an expert, my guess is that when a therapist disagrees with clients about current events it's not really an ethical issue, but it is very much an issue of effectiveness. Research shows that therapy is only effective when therapist and client fully respect and trust each other. A therapist whose bias undermines trust is not very likely to be effective.
How to find a therapist who won't be judgmental? I'm not sure. Can you get a personal recommendation from anyone? From your doctor, for example? Otherwise maybe it will have to be trial and error. Perhaps your goal in the very first session with a new therapist should be to assess how judgmental they are. If you don't have a good feeling about the therapist in the first session, there is probably no point in having more sessions.
Charlie
@LoneWolf1986
Hello there,
Welcome to the online therapy sub-community! From time to time, you may not agree with what your therapist is saying and vice versa. Our opinions, beliefs and perspectives are all what make us human and it's okay to have a different opinion. Usually, if your points of view are damaging to yourself or others, your therapist may gently challenge them but only because they care for your wellbeing.
Usually, a therapist should keep their viewpoints, political standing etc to themselves as therapy is about you and not the therapist. As RarelyCharlie mentioned, the therapeutic alliance (the relationship between yourself and the therapist is very crucial to you feeling better).
Sometimes a bad experience can really become a barrier to seeking help and I truly hope you decide to reach out to a therapist here. All of the 7 Cups therapists, agree to treat clients fairly no matter what your personal views are so you can be reassured that you will be looked after.
