Unrealistic expectations from psychologists
It is common for clients to have unreasonable expectations, like their problems to be solved in one or two settings, their symptoms to disappear, or their psychological disorders to be cured. Some expect to walk into a session for a psychologist to read their minds and predict their problems.
Clients over expectations should be clarified at the beginning of the session. When clients’ expectations are not discussed, it can lead to questioning the quality of therapy and counseling. It is essential to let the clients know about the long-term counseling and therapeutic process, and it takes efforts from the psychologist and the client to work on and manage their problems.
Missing out on homework
Homework is part of therapy and counseling. Psychologists assign homework for clients to go back and work on themselves. Home work includes journaling, activities, and worksheets. When medications are prescribed by doctors, people don’t forget to take them seriously. The same level of seriousness is needed when doing psychologically related homework. If clients are not earnest in doing their homework or task, it becomes an obstacle to the progress and effectiveness of therapy or counseling.
Absenteeism
Being inconsistent in attending therapy and counseling sessions can affect overall progress and well-being. The irregularity and frequent absenteeism show that the client is not serious or motivated to seek help or work on themselves.
A psychologist or therapist can’t fix everything.
The wrong belief “My psychologist or therapist will fix it for me.” Counseling or therapy is not about a psychologist or therapist fixing the issues and problems for the client. A psychologist will never decide, give advice, or tell the client what to do. A psychologist strongly believes that every client is a capable, strong, and potential individual who can work on the problem and decide for themselves. A psychologist helps the client find a path that can help them work on themselves. It is essential for clients to know the facts about the role of a psychologist before entering the session.
Dishonesty
Being dishonest in therapy or counseling sessions can cause ambiguity. Psychologists analyze and diagnose the problems by listening to and observing the client. Psychologists are not mind readers; they need information from the client to understand and help the client, so it is necessary for clients to be honest during the sessions. Counseling is a safe and confidential space for clients to confide.
Psychologists have picture-perfect lives.
Clients assume that psychologists have a successful life and function well in all areas of life. This is a common misconception that can make the client assume that the psychologist will not understand or empathize with them, so they become resentful and leave the treatment. It is important for clients to understand that psychologists are humans too and are not immune to stress and psychological disorders.
- In the first session, communicate your expectations, assumptions, and beliefs about counseling, therapies, and psychologists.
- The psychologist will clarify what a client can and cannot expect in the counseling or therapy sessions.
- A psychologist and therapist are not always going to be available. Only at the appointed and scheduled time will they be available to help the client.
- Counseling is a professional relationship with boundaries.
- Take your time and space to prepare yourself before going to counseling.
- Have the understanding that psychologists are also humans and have their own lives with issues. So it is necessary for the client to be humane towards the psychologist.
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