Emergencies During Therapy Sessions: What Therapists Do and How to Prepare

Introduction

Therapists are professionals who work closely with clients to address emotional and psychological issues. However, there may be times when an emergency arises, requiring therapists to take urgent action. This article explores how therapists typically handle emergencies during sessions, focusing on key protocols and best practices.

Assessing the Situation

The first and most crucial step for a therapist is to quickly assess the urgency and nature of the emergency. This allows them to determine the appropriate action and balance their professional responsibilities with the client’s needs.

Briefly Excuse Themselves

Therapists may need to temporarily excuse themselves from the session, explaining to the client that they have an urgent matter to attend to. It is important that the therapist ensures the client understands this decision is not a reflection of their importance in the session.

Setting Boundaries and Clear Expectations

Many therapists have established policies and guidelines for managing interruptions. These boundaries are often discussed with clients in advance, setting clear expectations on how emergencies are handled and managed within the therapeutic relationship.

Follow-Up with Clients Post-Emergency

After addressing the emergency, therapists usually follow up with their clients. This follow-up session helps in discussing what happened and ensures that the client’s needs continue to be met. It also provides an opportunity to address any concerns or adjustments that may be necessary.

Documentation of the Incident

Documentation of the emergency incident is essential for ethical and legal reasons. Therapists may document the nature of the emergency and the steps taken to handle it, ensuring that they maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional standards.

Emergency Protocols and Direct Interventions

In severe cases, therapists may need to terminate the therapy session altogether. Many therapists do not answer urgent calls during sessions, unless their calling system allows them to filter calls or the situation is such that immediate response is critical. If such an exceptional situation arises, therapists will take the necessary steps to ensure the client's safety and well-being, even if it means rescheduling the session.

Personal Account of a Therapist

As a hypothetical example, imagine a therapist who is fully engaged with their client and has their phone nearby but with the ringer off and the phone in their pocket. This scenario emphasizes the importance of minimizing distractions during therapy sessions. However, in highly unusual or special circumstances, a therapist might need to be closer to the phone and available to answer urgent calls. In this situation, the therapist would make sure to inform the client in advance about the need for potential interruptions and maintain clear communication about the expectations and arrangements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, therapists are trained to handle emergencies during sessions with professionalism and care. They prioritize the safety and well-being of both the client and their own families, ensuring that the therapeutic relationship remains strong and supportive. It is crucial for therapists to have clear protocols and boundaries in place to manage such situations effectively.