99. Is Therapeutic Neutrality a Thing of the Past? with Christine Sefein and David Teachout

In my second returning guests group chat, I delve into the complex world of therapy with colleagues David Teachout and Christine Sefein. We explore the concept of therapeutic neutrality and its relevance in today's therapy landscape. Is therapy dead? How are therapists able to maintain neutrality in an age of biases and cultural influences? And what are the limits to neutrality?

We discuss the ethical obligation of therapists to disclose their opinions and biases to clients. How does this disclosure impact the therapeutic relationship and the client's journey towards healing?

We touch on the delicate balance between safety and challenge in therapy, highlighting the importance of creating a space where clients feel secure yet encouraged to grow. What happens when clients bring in past experiences that shape their perceptions of therapy? How do therapists navigate these preconceptions and build trust with their clients?

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we address the ethical implications of therapists having a public presence. How does being Googleable impact the therapeutic relationship? And what are the boundaries and responsibilities of therapists in the digital age? Join us as we unravel these thought-provoking questions and explore the evolving landscape of therapy in today's world. Tune in to discover the answers to these compelling inquiries and gain insights into the intricate world of therapy.

Christine Sefein Wolk, LMFT, is a US-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in grief and trauma work. She has experience in various settings including residential facilities, outpatient treatment, and private practice. Christine has held positions such as Clinical Director and Clinical Supervisor. As Teaching Faculty at Antioch University, she discusses the ideological capture of therapy training in her book chapter in Cynical Therapies: Perspectives on the Anti-therapeutic Nature of Critical Social Justice. She is also a co-host on the Critical Therapy Antidote Podcast, exploring psychological trends with fascinating guests. Join CTA.

David Teachout is a mental health therapist and photographer, exploring the link between creativity and mental flexibility. Previously a Christian fundamentalist, he now embraces a diverse understanding of humanity. With masters degrees in forensic psychology and counseling, he is pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology. Visit his blog and podcast at www.lifeweavings.com and www.humanitysvalues.com.

Books mentioned in this episode:

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

Cynical Therapies: Perspectives on the Anti-therapeutic Nature of Critical Social Justice

[00:00:00] Is therapeutic neutrality dead?

[00:05:27] Therapeutic Neutrality and Informed Consent.

[00:10:27] The relevance of childhood in therapy.

[00:14:42] Trauma and resilience in therapy.

[00:19:24] Victim mindset vs resilience mentality.

[00:22:50] Chronic illness and social perception.

[00:25:35] The Just World fallacy and fear of mortality.

[00:31:45] The elements of therapeutic relationship.

[00:33:45] Therapeutic relationship boundaries.

[00:37:27] Trauma-dumping in therapy and relationships.

[00:40:57] Depth vs brief therapy and the medical model.

[00:42:02] The impact of prior experiences on transference.

[00:46:07] Gender-affirming care for minors.

[00:49:09] Public presence and perceptions.

[00:52:21] Assumptions about the therapist.

[00:55:26] Therapy versus consultation.

[01:03:33] Porn addiction and attraction.

[01:04:47] Porn addiction debate.

[01:09:04] Therapy and criticism.

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