Can I be a previously depressed therapist?
Would you consider it unethical to be a therapist if I am or have been depressed?
Posted Feb 7, 2020, 3:40 AM UTC
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1
I’m not in the field but the answer to that, to me, seems an obvious yes you can. I believe most people go through some depression at some point in their lives. It would seem to only provide greater insight. I’m not going to do the research right now, but I heard that very many (high percentage) of therapists get interested in that field because they have/are suffering(ed) from some form of mental illness. I think thats why a lot of people get into a chosen field, because it has effected their or their loved ones’ lives. I hear that sometimes therapist get very bored listening to patients. It would probably be better if you had more of an interest by relating better because you have been through it too. I’m sure it would come up early in the curriculum of just who should and shouldn’t be there.
1
Wow that is insightful and helpful I am already on the journey and feel that way about it too if nothing else I've chosen helping others as my purpose for my life and believe my depression will be insightful hopefully in helping others who struggle. The unethical worry comes from thoughts of unintentionally projecting myself on to my patients. But I'm sure my education will provide ways of avoiding it
1
You seem to care and the rest can be learned. You’ll probably be a great therapist. Good luck.
1
Having been or being depressed can, unfortunately, be helpful. You’ll know the pain your patients are going though. You’ll know, from the inside, on how you can really help. You’ll be a better listener and more humbling. Often times people choose to be a therapist because they, too, have been there.
Also, know that therapists are human too. They go through rough times. They’re human, you’re human.
If you are depressed, know that you’re going to have to be able to manage it better. You have to remain confident in your counseling. You have to remain neutral. If you break-down during a session, that can be detrimental to your patient. Be strong.
1
Agreed thankyou that was very helpful
2
No that’s fine, if you’re stable enough for the job no one would mind. Actually this will really be helpful to customers who come through with depression. You can be more understanding with self experience and help them better
1
That's where I stand just a matter of being absolutely certain that I can help these people the right way helpful
2
No. I think that’s actually a good thing. You can relate with patients and empathize with them. You can teach from personal experience and from what you learned in college.
1
Thankyou mainly just stressed because I dont want to be a bad therapist as there are so many thankyou helpful
1
I think you should go for it!!
1
If you become a therapist, you should disclose your depression, before accepting their money, if you want to be an honest person.
0
I agree I've been thinking that constantly, I will be upfront about my past and let them choose if they are interested in my help. Thankyou for being helpful
1
No you shouldn't, assuming you've treated it, there is no reason for them to know. Also just wanted to add, I believe therapists who have gone through their own stuff (and addressed it) often gain a valuable perspective and sense of caring that greatly assists them in helping others. Good luck 🙂
1
I agree with the thought you shouldn’t divulge that. Not because it’s a dirty little secret, but because it is your personal health. Even if it makes you a better therapist, you are not there to discuss your personal health. It’s not about you. That may effect the way they approach you. But again, I think if you get into the curriculum, they will address things like this.
1
Exactly, said perfectly 🙂, to clarify to op, my two points weren't meant to be connected
1
No, that isn't a problem. However, you should be getting therapy yourself.
Your absolutely right! Thankyou that is helpful and I am in multiple forms of assistance one of which being therapy lol