Posted by mist on January 26, 2002, at 15:13:57
In reply to Therapist wants Suicide Agreement (not to), posted by Shar on January 25, 2002, at 22:12:48
Shar,
My first reaction is that I wouldn't sign an agreement like that. I would feel it was demeaning and controlling of the therapist to make it a condition of entering the therapy group.
I also think it could have a counterproductive effect. If the thought of having the "suicide option" makes one feel less despairing and trapped in misery, losing that option could create more of a pressure cooker effect.
However, maybe those pacts work for some people and the therapist rather than having to determine which ones they might be, just applies it across the board as a matter of policy. I would be uncomfortable with it no matter what. -mist
> My therapist is beginning a group in Feb. that I want to be in, and wants me to agree to a one year commitment to the group, and that I won't commit suicide during that year.
>
> I've been seeing her for 10 years or so; this isn't a new therapeutic relationship, but it is the first time she's asked this of me before I joined group therapy.
>
> I understand her reasoning (she explained) but I am having a hard time giving up the option of suicide. I have always had a lot of ideation, but do not make suicidal gestures. However, if I commit to NOT do it for a year, I'm very big on honoring my commitments and won't do it.
>
> Aside from the "you shouldn't kill yourself" stance, does anyone have experience with this in therapy, or comments?
>
> Thanks,
> Shar
poster:mist
thread:17208
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20020125/msgs/17236.html