By Rich Simon As therapists, many of us practice in two different worlds. In the first, we see polite, well-behaved, articulate clients with solid values. They engage fully in therapy, talk cogently about their problems, listen attentively to our responses, make reasonably good-faith efforts to follow our suggestions, and sooner or later get better. No wonder we genuinely like these people! 
What about the perennial question, what is success? If I help a couple break through a roadblock, but it means the disintegration of their union, have I failed? That depends! I have had at least two couples in my practice recently who decided to divorce--and thanked me for my work. I think it is extremely important to understand what it is the client wants. I also consider it success when I identify that I am *not* the right therapist for the client and refer them to someone who has the expertise they need. I think it is a big mistake for therapists to think they can treat every client who comes in the door. Much more compassionate to let the client go to someone who might provide them with better treatment.
© 2013 Psychotherapy Networker