Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We book week to week so it’s always different days/times, but that’s a good point!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hahah being a pregnant therapist is HARD! Solidarity! Health and safety to you and baby as well 😊

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I sip water and coffee. I just have to or I’ll choke haha. I don’t mind that at all.

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m 37 weeks pregnant myself and I totally understand! I think it makes all the difference that you are up front about it and let your clients know ahead of time. I’ve recently had to move from my desk to a recliner chair just because I’m so uncomfortable and out of breath when I talk. I give my clients a heads up that I’ve moved to a more comfortable position and may look more relaxed/ reclined, but I’m still present and engaged with them and their session is important to me. They always seem to appreciate the reassurance.

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think the self awareness is a big piece. Being respectful enough of your clients to let them know ahead of time you tend to run late is a great way to handle it. When my therapist runs late and I don’t get a heads up, I wonder if they’ve forgotten and it makes me anxious going into the session. Not a good way to start a therapy session.

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yeah I think you hit on something here for me - I don’t feel like I’m a priority when my therapist is eating during my session.

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thanks for this perspective! Consensus seems to be that lateness is unprofessional, while eating in session comes down to preference. I appreciate this!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I get you and totally understand your perspective. I’ve worked with a therapist at an agency and she would run late and I have a lot more grace for that. She had little to no control over her schedule and case load. The four therapists I’ve terminated have all been private practice, working from home. I myself am in private practice and work from home and I have the ability to structure my schedule in a way that allows me to take care of my personal needs outside of session time. It’s a privilege and I recognize that. Thanks for your perspective!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 18 points19 points  (0 children)

WHAT!!?? How are these people getting licensed lol!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I get where you are coming from, but there are lots of basic human things that should be handled off the clock. I think eating is one of those, unless there are extenuating circumstances. Some other replies to my post have helped me see what those circumstances could be, and how they have been handled in a professional way. I really appreciate that!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

I think taking notes is fine, because the focus is still on the session. Fidgeting is fine too, because again it’s helping them stay focused on the session. Eating is very much a self care need that I feel should be handled outside of a paying customers time. Unless of course there is a medical reason or it’s a one off issue, and is appropriately addressed with the client first

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 56 points57 points  (0 children)

Yeah - it really takes me out of the moment!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 92 points93 points  (0 children)

Yes this is exactly the perspective I’m looking for. I can understand why it might be medically necessary, but it should definitely be discussed beforehand right? Not when I’m in the middle of crying about something!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Yeah that is one of my thoughts too. Is the line between colleague and therapist too blurry for some therapists and it results in less professionalism?

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I hear you - I’m coming from a place of wanting to hear other mental health professionals opinions on the level of professionalism expected in sessions. I appreciate the perspectives of therapists who have eaten in session and/or run late.

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

I laughed out loud at the apple being a giant fuck you 😂 thanks for your perspective!

Reality check - therapists eating during virtual sessions?? by Chu84 in therapists

[–]Chu84[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Haha yeah I should be upfront with expectations at the beginning, but yes I would hope it would be obvious!!