Case B: Dr. Pedestal
Rita James sought psychotherapy with Hy Pedestal, Ph.D., following a breakup with the man she had been dating for 2 months. She described a series of relationships with three different men in the past year. All followed the same pattern: casual social contacts leading to sexual intimacies by the second date and a breakup within a few weeks. Each time, Rita said she “felt like ending my life.” She began her second therapy session with Dr. Pedestal by telling him how helpful the first session had been and what an exceptional therapist he was. She then got out of her chair and sat on the floor by his feet, looking up at him adoringly. When Pedestal asked what she was doing, Rita replied, “I feel more comfortable like this.”
What are some Ethical Dilemmas, and how would you respond as a therapist?
