Posted by alexandra_k on June 29, 2005, at 21:45:18
In reply to Re: Do T's record your sessions? » happyflower, posted by fallsfall on June 28, 2005, at 9:22:48
Yeah, I agree that it would be unethical to tape without the clients consent.
Most of the t's I have been to have a tape recorder on hand. Thats not just for recording, though, it is also for playing tapes (e.g., relaxation exercises). Also making them. If the t does a relaxation exercise then they might ask to record it while they do it so if the client finds it helpful they can take the tape away with them.
I used to get tapes of the sessions. The only tape of the sessions. I liked that because I could better process what had happened in the session. I also liked to listen to her voice when I was distressed. I think I actually got a little obsessed about listening to them... I took the same tape back so the new session could be recorded over the top - I didn't want to be building up a library.
I had to sign a contract with that t saying that I agreed to be voice recorded and filmed as well for supervision / training purposes. I agreed because I had to to get to work with her. Later, when it came up as an issue we discussed it and she agreed that she would find a way around it in my case. Because she was doing the clinical program at my uni and because I knew people involved in the program. I didn't want them to know I was having DBT. Same with my filenotes. Her supervisor was the only one to see them and she gave me an alternative name and so on when she had to discuss me in clinical supervision. It was kind of hard because I was her only DBT client and it was the first year DBT was being offered and she was the only clinical student who got the opportunity to train as a DBT therapist. She was supposed to write stuff on that etc. But she ended up not doing so much on it because of my situation. I was lucky there. I trusted her.
With respect to file notes...
I really do think that therapists should keep them. Just in case something happens... And a client says they were taken advantage of or attempts to sue for incompetence or whatever. To have clear notes of what was done in session is some kind of record. I really do think it is important for them to do that. And IMO it isn't a matter of trusting the client - it is a matter of professionalism. We wouldn't be happy if a lawyer didn't make notes to keep a case straight in their mind and I don't see how therapists are any different in that respect.
poster:alexandra_k
thread:519834
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20050628/msgs/521285.html