Posted by gardenergirl on September 9, 2004, at 10:13:52
In reply to Re: the election – what's your T say?, posted by Miss Honeychurch on September 9, 2004, at 8:50:43
That's a good question. I wouldn't hate it. I wouldn't think it would harm the alliance as he never has given a hint one way or the other. I guess I just would be disappointed. I'm not sure why. That sure sounds judgemental of me, doesn't it?
As far as a client, I don't think I've had anyone who has brought politics into the therapy session. I have had several very conservative clients, as I worked at a Catholic University for training last year. I don't *think* I've found any differences in beliefs to interfere with therapy.
Now that I think about it, I have had some older adult clients who spoke of politics when the war started. I usually just focused on their fears and worries and validated their life experiences and wisdom. Their actual beliefs one way or another on the political spectrum didn't really play a role.
What I think I would have to focus on with a very conservative client is to make sure that I understand their beliefs and where they come from and not assume anything. So if it is an issue in therapy, it might take more exploration for me to understand. But that doesn't feel any different to me than trying to understand anything else that I don't have experience with...I don't know.... ??
Warmly,
gg
poster:gardenergirl
thread:388010
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040905/msgs/388648.html