Thursday 11 December 2014

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.



The security and safety that come with therapy should not translate into dual relationship with the therapist. Even as you respect the guidance and opinion of the therapist, professional boundaries must be maintained. Adults are abused as much as children are. This level of vulnerability requires quick action to save the victim from long lasting damage and loss of personal confidence.



Violation may come from either a male or female therapist. Sexual exploitation is the most common form of abuse. Violation has caused many victims to be admitted into hospitals because of depression. Others have attempted suicide while a significant percentage has succeeded. This points at the need to take quick and decisive action.



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.



It is easy to spot unprofessional conduct by your therapist. Therapists who discuss personal matters, sensitive topics and personal lives are unethical and possibly abusive. You should quit if the initial sessions feel violating and abusive. It prevents the situation from getting out of hand.



Therapists who make you feel ashamed, intimidated, humiliated and degraded are abusing your vulnerability. This is a healing process and should make you feel better. Erotic and suggestive comments are signs of trouble ahead. Winking, hugging, kissing and sexual acts signal trouble.



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.



Most victims are trapped because they feel vulnerable while the therapist appears as your source of comfort. It is the professional services that are important and not necessarily the therapist. There are standard procedures in each case and they must be respected. Failure to attend any sessions should not leave you feeling guilty or anxious. The attachment to therapy should be strictly professional.



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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