Posted by pegasus on April 23, 2004, at 13:16:01
In reply to Re: Ts: Field choice *always* = caring? (opinion), posted by spoc on April 23, 2004, at 11:23:32
You know, spoc, after I wrote my last post, I reread yours, and I have to agree with a lot of what you said. While I think a lot of Ts work really hard and are very caring people. I'm sure that it's a continuum. And we've certainly heard here about a lot of Ts who have not really been as helpful and concerned about their clients as they could have been.
I think where I get stuck, though, is in thinking about the money aspect. I'm sure you're right that some folks are in it for the money and relative ease of the job (if you see it that way). But I would bet that most aren't.
I've been fortunate to have Ts who really do not seem to be in it for the money. And many folks here seem to have the same. We've heard about Ts giving big discounts, and even free sessions, for ongoing clients who hit rough patches. My own Ts have had very reasonable rates, and could have charged significantly more, based on what others in the community charge. I know Ts who donate hours to community agencies that are doing human service work.
I also know Ts who work their butts off. My own T was back in the office a few days after his second child was born, so his clients wouldn't have to go too long without seeing him. He didn't take much vacation time for the same reason. He always seemed to have thought through my issues beyond our 50 minute session once a week. He talked to me on the phone whenever I wanted. He accepted a lot of anger, resistance, criticism, and rudeness from me without wavering in his support. I think that's hard work, personally.
But your T, spoc, does sound like he might be considering the bottom line more than what you need. So I can understand where you're coming from. That sucks.
I guess there are Ts like you describe, and those like I describe, and so your comments about being wary, especially when you're not sure you're a good judge, are well taken.
pegasus
poster:pegasus
thread:339137
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040419/msgs/339177.html