Can you talk to a psychologist about anything?

You can talk about whatever you want. True, some people come to therapy to address something specific, like anxiety or depression.

Can a psychologist refuse to answer questions from the judge when testifying in a case?

If a psychologist is asked to disclose confidential information during questioning at a deposition, he or she may refuse to answer the question only if the information is privileged.

Are psychologists bound by confidentiality?

Psychologists are ethically bound to protect your privacy regardless of what information you choose to share with others. If you have specific concerns about confidentiality or what information a psychologist is legally required to disclose, discuss it with your psychologist.

Can a therapist testify against their client?

Either side may call therapists to testify as a fact witness or expert witness depending on the circumstances. However, therapists can also be expert witnesses. This means that you may call your therapist or your child’s therapist to give his or her opinion on custody or visitation.

Can therapist talk about themselves?

Yes. Therapist self-disclosure can be a powerful therapeutic tool, but self-disclosure is most definitely an advanced therapeutic skill. Good training programs teach therapists about the timing and the technique for self-disclosure.

What happens when a psychologist responds the wrong way?

Responding the wrong way — whether by pushing back at the client or withdrawing — can derail the client’s progress, say Honda and others. But, they add, there are ways to use uncomfortable interactions to actually improve treatment. How can psychologists respond effectively to challenging clients?

Can my therapist discuss my situation with other therapists?

There may be times when your therapist discusses your situation with other therapists or their supervisor, which is known as consultation, but even in those situations, the therapist is obligated to keep your identity and privacy as much as possible.

Are your clients challenging you as a psychologist?

Challenging clients aren’t just a problem for clinical and counseling psychologists, either. Forensic psychologists, such as those working as postdivorce parenting coordinators, can also face hostility.

What do you do when a client curses at your therapist?

If a client curses at him, Hanna expresses his admiration for the client standing up for him- or herself. Doing so, he says, helps clients see that their therapists understand them. At least rudeness gives you something to work with, adds Brodsky. Say a client attacks the way a psychologist looks.