Therapist Safety: A Silent Crisis
Who is actually taking care of our therapists? Recently, there has been an increasing concern about “therapist safety.” Throughout my educational journey, my professors, textbooks, mentors, and supervisors have always emphasized the importance of “client safety and confidentiality.” However, there has been less focus on “therapist safety,” hasn’t there? At least, that’s my observation based on what I have read and heard. So, why is this the case? Just because we, as mental health professionals, are expected to be responsible, ethical, empathetic, and understanding does not mean our boundaries should be violated, right? **Trigger Warning: Sexual Abuse** — During the recent months, there were numerous cases and incidents highlighting how many female therapists often feel uncomfortable with potential clients. So what are to do, to make this situation better ?
Despite our tendency to comment on such posts and empathize with the discomfort being expressed, how are we, as upcoming therapists, supposed to navigate these situations? With that in mind, I often find myself fearful about how I would respond when faced with similar circumstances in the future. Although the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) exists, there isn’t a governing body dedicated solely to the safety of mental health professionals. So in the future at least, I hope that such a body would be established. But, in the meantime, it's essential for us to explore ways to keep ourselves safe as mental health professionals on both online and offline modes.
During my research on this topic, I encountered a recurring theme: “screening for safety.” As professionals, we cannot directly ask clients if they have violent tendencies. But instead, we need to utilize several methods to assess our safety. First, we can collect their case history and look for any signs of violence, angry outbursts, or legal troubles. It’s important to note that you cannot fully understand a client in just one session. Aim to have at least two to three sessions to develop a comprehensive understanding of their background and behavior for their screening.
It's always better to be “safe than sorry,” right? But for us therapists, balancing the work of helping clients while staying cautious can be tricky — yet slightly achievable. For those therapists conducting sessions online, it’s wise to invest in software that can block potential hackers and keep your devices secure. If something about a client feels suspicious, trust your instincts and address it immediately. And always keep a list of emergency contacts easily accessible — as your safety matters just as much as your client’s well-being. For the ones at offline sessions, instead of emergency contacts, make sure that there is a panic button somewhere in the room, during the case of emergencies. And make sure to follow the “screening test”.
3. As upcoming therapists, I’m sure many of us have imagined what our dream therapy room would look like, right? I know I have! While it’s important to create a space that feels warm and welcoming for clients while adding some of our personal touch, it’s equally important to avoid displaying anything that reveals our personal information or identity. Clients should know you as their therapist — your qualifications, your approach, your professional expertise — not your social media handles, home address, or personal contact details. So, when the day comes for you to set up your own space, remember: comfort and safety go hand in hand.
4. Make sure to not overwork yourself, and this does not even come from the point of ‘burnout’. But make sure to have fixed timings for all your clients, and no ‘special timings’ for anyone. Keeping this in mind, do not give any late-night or early-morning appointments to any of your clients, especially if they are at high risk. This is better for your safety, and for theirs as well.
Ending with a gentle reminder: I am in no way trying to demean any kind of client in the above-mentioned pointers. I am a firm believer that everyone should get therapy at least once in their lifetime. However, there are times when we, as upcoming or current therapists, must also look after our own safety. I hope none of these pointers offend anyone in any way; instead, I intend for them to be seen as “strategies” for therapist safety. Until the next blog, stay safe — and help others feel safe too (especially your therapists)!
