Therapy is a journey of self-discovery and healing that many people pursue for mental health support. However, the experience can occasionally fall short when therapists step beyond professional boundaries or display unprofessional behavior. In recent years, numerous patients have shared stories of disappointing and even abusive therapy sessions, raising concerns about the state of mental health care.

Experiences of Unprofessional Therapists

Consider Elise, a 37-year-old resident of San Diego, who felt immediately uncomfortable with her new therapist’s unconventional approach of riding a stationary bike during their conversation. Maria Danna, from Portland, Oregon, found herself startled by her therapist’s vigorous use of a maraca, citing it as an attempt to harness her energy. Furthermore, Carson, a postpartum depression patient in Ohio, encountered a doctor sending excessive text messages and eventually harboring sexual feelings for her. These stories highlight the range of unprofessional behaviors that can occur in therapy.

The Scale of the Issue

Last year, The New York Times invited readers to share their experiences with problematic therapists, receiving well over 2,700 submissions. These accounts were rife with examples of unethical behavior, bizarre interactions, and boundary violations. While state licensing boards are theoretically responsible for regulating therapy practices, the system faces numerous challenges. Instances of abuse, even when reported, may not result in disciplinary action due to stringent standards.

Recognizing Red Flags

Eric Jones, a therapist based in Santa Ana, California, notes that every graduate cohort likely includes individuals who raise concerns among peers. Therapists are ethically bound to prevent certification for such individuals, though this is not always effective. Jones has personally fired or reported several therapists for improper behavior. Jonathan E. Alpert, chair of the department of psychiatry at Montefiore Einstein in New York, emphasizes that a therapist’s primary goal should be to promote a patient’s health and growth. If these objectives are not met, it signals that something is amiss.

When Therapists Cross Boundaries

Maintaining physical and emotional boundaries is crucial in therapy. Red flags include therapists who frequently share personal information, touch patients inappropriately, flirt, offer gifts, or attempt to form social relationships outside clinical settings. For those experiencing boundary violations, turn to resources like the Therapy Exploitation Link Line (TELL). Founded to assist individuals harmed by therapists, TELL offers guidance such as advice from Deborah A. Lott, who faced a sexual relationship with her former therapist in the 1980s.

Dealing with Abandoned Professionalism

Some therapists exhibit unprofessional behavior through chronic lateness, in-session snacking, failure to communicate fees, missed appointments, or even falling asleep during sessions. Melissa Petty, aged 71 and from Dallas, expresses her dissatisfaction after witnessing her therapist asleep during an important discussion. Other patients report therapists engaging in unconventional methods without proper qualifications or improperly conducting treatments like E.M.D.R.

Therapists Who Lack Empathy

Ignoring patient concerns is another form of unprofessionalism. Leah Odette found her therapist dismissed her fear of dogs, leading to an unpleasant encounter. Emily, from Pittsburgh, faced a therapist who spent an entire session staring out the window, offering no meaningful interaction. In these situations, it may be necessary to seek a new therapist to ensure a productive and supportive therapeutic relationship.

Seeking a Solution

Dr. Jessica M. Smedley, a clinical psychologist in Washington, D.C., stresses the importance of finding a new therapist if you’re experiencing dissatisfaction or abuse. Reporting unethical behavior to licensing boards is another vital step. When faced with ambiguous situations, consider discussing concerns with your therapist and evaluating their response. A therapist who reacts defensively or unable to address feedback should be reconsidered.

“A therapist who reacts defensively to that or is not able to take in that feedback and change is a therapist that somebody shouldn’t continue working with,” Dr. Alpert said.

Conclusion

While therapy holds the potential for remarkable healing, the experiences of Elise, Maria Danna, and Carson underscore the importance of selecting a professional therapist. Patients should feel comfortable and safe, and any doubts about a therapist’s competence or ethical practice should be addressed promptly. Seeking alternatives or reporting misconduct is crucial for maintaining the integrity of mental health care.