322 - Theory of Mind
Statutory Regulation in Counselling and Psychotherapy - Dual Relationships in Counselling
In Episode 322 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we discuss the theory of mind and its implications in neurodivergence.
- Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Anne Guy about the pros and cons of statutory regulation in counselling and psychotherapy.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken explore managing dual relationships in counselling.
Theory of Mind [starts at 04:38 mins]
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In this section, Rory and Ken discuss Theory of Mind, a developmental psychology concept that has drawn controversy in its application to neurodivergence and autism.
Key points include:
- Theory of Mind (ToM): Understanding mental states such as beliefs, intentions, and emotions, in yourself and others.
- ToM is crucial for social interaction but has been criticized for portraying autistic individuals as lacking empathy—a view disputed by the community.
- Double Empathy Problem: A concept by Dr. Damian Milton emphasising that communication challenges in autism involve both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals.
- Neurotypical privilege may lead to biases in understanding neurodivergence.
- Ken uses the analogy of operating systems (e.g., Mac and Windows) to illustrate differences in neurotypical and neurodivergent processing.
Takeaway: Therapists must approach neurodivergent clients with sensitivity, recognising diversity in communication styles and avoiding deficit-focused perspectives.
Theory to Practice is sponsored by
Counselling Skills Academy
Learn counselling techniques by seeing counselling skills used in real sessions by qualified therapists.
Real sessions – real-life presentations – real skills.
Statutory Regulation in Counselling and Psychotherapy [starts at 28:47 mins]
In this week’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Anne Guy about the implications of statutory regulation in counselling and psychotherapy.
Main points include:
- Pros and Cons of Regulation: Regulation may create barriers for diverse practitioners and overly bureaucratise therapy. While it aims to protect clients, it might unintentionally diminish flexibility and creativity in therapeutic relationships.
- The recent Ella Jenner case reignited debates on client safety and regulatory oversight.
- Informed Consent: Clients should be empowered with knowledge about therapists' qualifications and ethical standards.
- The importance of balancing safety with open, authentic therapeutic relationships.
- Dr. Guy advocates for broader conversations within the profession about potential alternatives to statutory regulation.
Counselling Study Resource:
Assignment Guidance & Study Support for Counselling Students
- Academic Lecture Library - Lectures that cover key theory, skills and professional development linked to your counselling study.
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- Theory Decoded, Skills Mastery and More - Counselling theories and skills are broken down into easy-to-understand ‘chunks’, with clear examples to guide you.
Dual Relationships in Counselling [starts at 57:17 mins]
Managing dual relationships is a critical yet nuanced aspect of ethical counselling practice.
Key points:
Definition: Dual relationships occur when a therapist has another type of relationship with their client, such as being a friend, family member, or colleague.
Case Examples:
- Counselling a neighbour or acquaintance may compromise confidentiality and boundaries.
- Handling accidental interactions, such as meeting a client in a public setting, requires discretion and professionalism.
- Hidden Dual Relationships: Examples include situations where a therapist and supervisor are unknowingly connected through client networks.
- While generally avoided, dual relationships may sometimes be manageable if carefully considered and supervised.
- Students should avoid dual relationships entirely to maintain clear boundaries during early practice.
Takeaway: Maintain professional boundaries and consult with supervisors or peers for guidance when dual relationships arise.
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Theory of Mind
Links and Resources
The Guardian article: Woman who Sued therapist for Sexual Assault