Therapists' experiences of “internet exposure” in the therapeutic relationship: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundAs social media continues to grow in popularity, many people have become accustomed to publishing information about themselves and others on the web. In this context, it is arguably harder than ever for therapists to keep their personal and professional lives separate. There is little research to help practitioners navigate this.AimsThis research aimed at investigating the effect on the therapist and the therapeutic relationship in cases where clients obtained personal information about their therapist online and subsequently disclosed that information during a session.MethodologySemistructured interviews were conducted with six participants and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Participants were interviewed twice, with the second interview taking place 8 weeks after the first. Participants were qualified mental health professionals who had experience of a client disclosing personal information about them that had been obtained online.FindingsFour superordinate themes emerged: (1) tension in peacetime, (2) breach of defences, (3) weapons and (4) the aftermath: renegotiation with client and self. These represent the struggle experienced by participants and follow the journey from pre to postdisclosure. The analysis identified feelings of vulnerability and shame, which made it difficult to navigate the therapeutic relationship.ConclusionThe findings suggest that the experience can positively impact the therapeutic relationship, despite challenges. Nonetheless, fear continues to cloud this topic, prompting an avoidance among therapists, supervisors, training organisations and professional bodies. The implications of this study are not concerned with preventing the encounter but rather with preparing for the eventuality.