Rethinking Resistance in Therapy: Why Clients Are Not the Issue

During the recent Low Country Mental Health Conference in South Carolina, I was asked a common question in our field: "How do you handle resistant clients?" Honestly, I believe the concept of a "resistant client" is a misconception. It's crucial to understand that resistance often reflects our approach as therapists rather than the client's attitude. While speaking at the conference, a participant named Cynthia inquired about managing resistant clients. My response is that I don't see clients as resistant because therapy involves engaging with the client's reality and accepting their truths. Clients come to therapy facing challenging circumstances—whether it's relapse, addiction, relationship issues, job loss, or suicidal thoughts—and sharing these with a stranger is inherently difficult. Therefore, if a client appears resistant, it might indicate that we're not addressing topics with enough hope or connection to their goals. Sometimes, clients resist because they don't feel safe discussing certain issues, not because they're unwilling. Redirecting the conversation to topics they feel comfortable with can build trust and open pathways for deeper discussion. No matter which thera...