A little over three months ago, after receiving some very helpful guidance from my mentor/supervisor, I let go of a painfully difficult client at the end of a long work week. I informed them humbly and regretfully that I clearly was “not a good fit” for them, handed over a list of local psychotherapists and their contact info., and wished them well with getting the care they need– from someone else.
I felt relief and some fast-fading guilt.
I cannot serve everyone who walks through my door, even after trying to do so and sometimes suffering in the process. This person will surely, someday, find the help they need elsewhere, and I have continued to learn from this experience. C’est la vie.