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Amélie Boukhobza (Clinical psychologist)
On Monday, your psychologist saw you in his office for the last time. Not because you no longer wanted to see him, but because he no longer wanted to see you. A shocking behavior, which can be explained? Doctissimo answers you.
During your last session, your psychologist revealed to you that you “did not want to continue therapy”. If this sentence can be difficult to hear and accept, it can be explained.
A hammer blow… sometimes justified
When a psychologist says “that he does not wish to continue therapy“, the announcement can have the effect of a real sledgehammer. Different emotions can then arise: shock, of course, but also a feeling of disappointment, sadness, or sometimes even anger. How to understand such refusal? Are we the cause of the problem or is it the therapist?
For Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist, if this sentence can, rightly, “cause a mixture of confusion, anger or questioning”, this type of decisionis never taken lightly by a professional“, she recalls.
“Of course, it must be recognized that this formulation can be a little clumsy. Personally, I have never said and will never say “I can do nothing more for you”… On the other hand, what this formula translates is: “We have reached the end of the work that we could do together Perhaps it would be interesting to consult another professional or try another therapeutic approach. summarizes the expert.
It ultimately comes down to “of a recognition of the limits of therapistbut also the needs for evolution of therapy. The expert admits that the proposed framework no longer corresponds to the patient’s expectations or that the therapeutic link no longer has the same dynamic. Far from being a failure, this approach is rather responsible and ethical”, underlines Amélie Boukhobza.
In this context (and whatever the reason justifying the end of therapy), the role of the psychologist is “to support the patient in this transition phase“.
“By giving a clear explanation and, ideally, by directing the patient towards other resources: a colleague, a sister, or another therapeutic approach. No question of leaving anyone in the wild! If this is not done, then we ask questions. Why this decision? What are the options? Understanding will indeed help to calm some of the emotions that this situation can trigger. explains the specialist.
What if you feel abandoned?
“It must be said“, says the expert.
“This feeling could not be more legitimate. Talking about it can do good and admitting it does not call into question the work accomplished. This emotion means that it is time to take another step to go further.”.
Another good reflex, following this announcement: do not stay alone.
“As said previously, reconnecting with another professional or exploring a new approach can restart the work. A fresh look at an issue can not only be enriching, but also very encouraging.” underlines the psychologist.
Legally, does a psychologist have the right to refuse a patient?
Yes, a psychologist can refuse a patient in his office if he wishes, under article 5 of the Code of Ethics for Psychologists.
“In all circumstances, the psychologist demonstrates moderation, discernment and impartiality. The psychologist accepts missions that he considers compatible with his functions and skills in compliance with this Code. If he considers it useful, he can direct people or call on other professionals“, details article 5.
You now have in your possession all the information you need to know how to react in such a situation.
Slide: 10 signs you should see a psychologist