If a client discloses a past sexual relationship with a previous therapist, what is the psychologist's best response?

When a client discloses a past sexual relationship with a previous therapist, the psychologist's most appropriate response is to outline the client's rights and options regarding legal actions. This response is grounded in professional ethics and standards of care, as it acknowledges the serious nature of the disclosure and the potential harm the client may have experienced. It emphasizes the psychologist's responsibility to provide support and information about the client's rights regarding any past misconduct.

By informing the client of their legal options, the psychologist ensures that the client feels empowered and acknowledges that their experiences are valid and important. This approach also aligns with ethical imperatives surrounding client welfare and informed consent, as it enables the client to make informed decisions about how to proceed in addressing their experiences.

In this context, encouraging the client to forget about the issue is not only dismissive but also fails to acknowledge the emotional and psychological impact the relationship may have had on the client. Additionally, telling the client to confront the previous therapist could place the client in a vulnerable position and may not be constructive for their therapeutic progress. Suggesting therapy with another clinician might provide support, but without addressing their rights and options concerning their past experience, it could overlook critical psychological and ethical concerns.