In each issue of TILT we shall be presenting an ethical dilemma about a Web 2.0 experience and other ethical topics related to mental health and technology, and inviting readers to comment at the Online Therapy Institute’s social network. In the following issue of TILT, we shall select from the comments about what YOU would do when faced with the dilemma.
LAST ISSUE’S DILEMMA!
You are a coach or therapist and you have been engaged with a client using individual chat and support group discussion forum. This client was referred to you through a wellness center in your local community and your sessions have not utilized an audio or video component.
Your client has requested an in-person session at your office. What concerns might you have about making this transition?
Larry F. Saidman responds:
The main concern is the “shock” that the client might experience from the discrepancy between what he or she thought I looked and sounded like…and the reality. Before the appointment I’d address this in a fairly ‘light-hearted’ way….maybe by asking the client to share what s/he expects (i.e. what does s/he envision I look like, talk like, etc.), or, by disclosing some information about myself. I’d also invite the client to disclose anything s/he feels comfortable with about what I might experience, as I think that could reduce some anxiety.
… read the complete story ~ http://issuu.com/onlinetherapyinstitute/docs/titliss10/20
This article first appeared in the Spring 2012 issue of TILT Magazine ~ Therapeutic Innovations in Light of Technology.
Click here to read the entire PDF version of the What Would You Do article.
