Dooley Noted: 9/11/2014
Therapists have to be very careful about language. We are considered experts by our patients, so every uttered word can become a doctrine.
When someone asks a question about therapies, I discuss many available options. I am very clear that the decision must be made by the informed patient.
I can’t say all therapists give options to their patients, possibly to avoid a discussion being misconstrued as a recommendation.
The therapist brought it up, so it must be recommended, right?
This is similar to thinking I recommend lasagna, just because I read it as a possibility off a menu.
This happens to me so often that I have to ask people to repeat back what they understand of what we discussed.
Options are only open doors for further discussions.
What you intend to convey and what is heard are not always equivocal.
Sometimes, people hear what they want.
Sometimes, people won’t hear what they don’t want to hear.
Some may “believe” in certain options, and not even take a recommendation that you give.
While you have little control over third party perception, you can take steps to make your intentions clearer.
Some tips:
1. Ask the person to teach you something they just learned from you.
2. If providing recommendations, ask the person to walk you through their understanding of the steps.
3. Note that different options work for different people. While it may be frustrating, there may be trial and error involved in determining what will best help. There is patient responsibility in option exploration.
4. Sometimes you may need option A, or option A and B, or options A and C. Solving problems is complicated and often multifactorial, so an exploration of combinations is helpful.
I know my care is not the only option. My help may or may not be a part of the option set that works for the patient.
If one chooses my help as an option, I will do everything I can to play a part in the successful option set.
But I won’t be afraid to provide options and promote patient exploration.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley