Posted by Dinah on May 17, 2005, at 8:12:32
In reply to Re: Is it harmful to be friends with T ? long, posted by LG04 on May 16, 2005, at 23:46:38
My problem with that book is that it didn't seem to be a good example of its point. The client didn't come across as someone who would be better served by friendship than therapy. Her therapist certainly seemed to have made a fair share of mistakes. How many is difficult to tell because we all know how one person's account of a relationship (any relationship) isn't necessarily what an impartial observer would see. But her mistakes sounded more like not admitting she was out of her depth early enough and referring the client on.
I ended up with a clearer appreciation for the boundaries, especially as they protect the therapist.
I was sorry not to like the book better.
It sounds as if your therapist and you are going through a good process of deciding whether friendship would be appropriate and healthy for the two of you. Talking it over thoroughly, exploring the impact on both persons, making sure it is mutually desired, taking into account the potential problems, and I'm guessing a cooling off period?
Unless therapy was short term and educational or collegial in nature, friendship on the terms of a true mutual friendship would be pretty hard to establish on the foundation of a true therapy relationship. But it's got a better chance if the hardships are anticipated, rather than the whole thing rushed and improperly thought out.
poster:Dinah
thread:493094
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20050513/msgs/498841.html