Dear Poppyxo:

It is my understanding that professional, competent psychotherapists cannot have a family member or friend as a patient or client because of the lack of objectivity required for the therapist-patient relationship. The excellent therapist I had told me he gives “Zero Advice” to his family members. That was his policy. He “zeroed in” on their feelings, he said. My understanding it, he listened and showed empathy for their problems, but offered no advice.

If you offer family and friends no advice, you will not be disappointed when they don’t take it.

anita