Language Matters
Jun 19, 2023
I work with a lot of practitioners. I have always worked with practitioners. The difference now is in Australia, I find that one psychologist leads another psychologist who leads another who leads another who leads another. The same language regurgitated amongst the clinicians and the same ideas are shared. Here are a few things I'd like to see changed in the field.
The purpose of the cancellation fee.
All practitioners say their cancellation fee is in effect so another client can have the appointment time. They will also say, it's so the practitioner can do "other" things during that time. I would like to see more practitioners stressing the clinical importance of attending their sessions, thus seeking accountability for that hour that is set aside for the client. Sure all of the other things are true, but where is the accountability to the client for blocking that time out and then holding them to their word. I understand the above items are true and important, but has humans, we tend to lean more toward the selfish side. Why does the client care that you could have booked someone else in? Their child is sick. Of course it feels as though it's a punishment. They can't help it. I encourage you to take a look at your policy and be creative with re-working this policy into a manner that is unrecognisable by other practices.
This is your journey.
I understand clearly that you want to leave the importance of this therapeutic journey to the client. However, the client is seeking guidance and assistance with this journey. We both know you can't provide answers or a direction; however, it's really good for the client to understand exactly what that means. What role do you have as a therapist? How will you participate in this journey? Will you participate?
My rooms are calm, confidential and peaceful.
Honestly, this is the worst. Firstly, of course it is. You aren't meeting your clients at the zoo. Secondly, you feel that is important because you understand that is a component. If you view this from the client's perspective, what they want to know is, can this person help me. Can you fix me. That is the question you need to answer. How do you minimise the expectation that you're doing all the work and that the client is the one who has to work to engage and be committed to therapy. Understand your target cohort. Who is coming into seek your services? Business men who having a drinking problem? Housewives who want assistance with what to do with their time? Mum's who are have difficulties bonding with their children? Couples who can't stop fighting? Who is your target market and how do you direct your language to speak to them? How do they know you are their person? How do you become their therapist?
Lastly, about this, clients won't feel calm and peaceful in your room. It's your space. Not theirs. They have to become vulnerable to a person they don't know in a place that isn't theirs. The only way this room becomes calm and peaceful is when you prove to them you can hold their space. Stand by them through thick and thin. Set boundaries. Guide them in their journey.
