When we look for therapists/counsellors/psychologists for our treatment, we often end up confused. Who to choose, what are our priorities, and how to start the sessions with them? Finding the right professional can be a very tiring task. However, we should know that there is no "best fit" for everyone. We are not perfect, and certainly, we are not mind-readers.

Many professionals work tirelessly and become torchbearers for others. On the flip side, some underqualified, unethical, and sometimes greedy individuals exploit their clients. People who are already shattered, disappointed, and ignorant may experience unfortunate incidents like fraud, trauma, or abuse, causing them to retreat further into their shells, perhaps never to emerge again. Such incidents are not only additional baggage for the clients but also a black mark on our profession.

If you suspect you might be one of the clients being harmed rather than helped, then this post is for you.

A client must know therapy is potentially harmful when...

1. The therapist is working outside their scope of practice.

We need valid academic transcripts to practice. Clients have the full right to ask about their Mental Health Provider's (MHP's) degree, certification, license, or registration before starting sessions. Don't hesitate to ask for verification.

2. They start giving you advice.

We simply don't do that. Advising is not our job. Clients need to learn that no advice works until it comes from within. How much advice has actually worked for you in the past? Moreover, we work on the principle of autonomy, where clients are deemed capable of deciding for themselves. Counselling or therapy rooms provide a space to explore and work things out. MHPs don't advise.

3. They compel clients/patients to disclose things before they are comfortable sharing.

Some sessions are uncomfortable, but we don't compel. Our job is to help a client face their tough situations, which they have been actively suppressing, but we know when and how to expose our clients to those situations. Don't do anything if you feel compelled.

4. They ask for promoting their services from their clients.

Our relationship is one-to-one, not one-to-many. Word-of-mouth should only work when clients do it on their own. MHPs don't take financial or other favors from their clients just because they helped them.

5. They promote their competence without relevant qualifications or certification.

Don't go to any MHP just because you find their Instagram profile attractive, or their online presence is impressive. Please don't trust ads blindly. Before agreeing to any professional relationship, ask them questions. Clients are paying for their treatment. Verify their credentials and experience.

6. You start hearing other clients' stories in your sessions.

This is a serious breach of confidentiality. We are not supposed to discuss other clients, their matters, or their successes. If other client stories are shared with you without hesitation, there's a chance your story is being shared in other client sessions as well.

7. You hear the "I discussed your case with..." statement from the therapist without your consent.

We do take supervision, training, and ask other professionals for help, but the client is always informed. They know who knows what part of their story. Never let such incidents slide. There is "informed consent" for everything that happens in the therapy room.

8. You observe that the therapist themselves is reacting to your information frequently instead of stopping and responding to you.

We all have our triggers, but therapists can manage them well. We are trained, undergo therapy before providing it to other people, and are well aware of what is happening inside us. However, if any therapist is unable to manage their triggers, they are probably not the right person to discuss issues with. Our triggers are formed after repeated exposures. If your MHP is unable to rectify their mistaken perspective, how can they possibly tell their clients how to deal with theirs?

To summarize: Know your therapist by asking questions, know your rights and duties before entering any professional relationship, do your homework regarding your MHP, and be aware when things have turned against your favor during sessions. This article is not written to demean anyone or instill fear but to spread awareness.