Man Trashes Two Years Of Therapy By Firing Family's Therapist After She Asked Him For Tips

You usually don't tip in a medical environment, right? But when it comes to the spa sector, tipping for massages is extremely common, and you might typically leave a tip.

Bringing this into the therapy space, have you ever considered that therapists can be tipped? Well, the OP of today's story surely did not imagine it, as that was a red flag for him.

You see, one of the biggest barriers preventing people from seeking therapy is the lack of health insurance. Confusion over insurance coverage for mental health services is also prevalent.

If you're among the millions of individuals considering therapy, you might be worried about your out-of-pocket expenses and the extent of your health insurance coverage. It's also possible that you're having trouble locating a licensed therapist who both fits your needs and accepts your insurance. 

This wasn't a problem for the OP, as his insurance covers 100% of therapy sessions. The OP and his ex have a 12-year-old boy who is going through some challenges.

They found a therapist and have been seeing her for a couple of years. The OP informed the therapist that he makes good money and doesn't have many bills.

Later on, the therapist asked to start receiving about $20 in cash because she's not making much with what his insurance pays her. So, in essence, she wants something like a tip, and this tipped the OP off in the wrong way.

The OP writes

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

The OP doesn't have a copayment because his insurance covers 100% of therapy sessions

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

Exploring the Impact of Therapy on Family Dynamics

Dr. Karen Lee, a family therapist, discusses the complexities involved in family therapy and the potential for conflicts to arise.

Her research indicates that when individuals resist therapeutic processes, it can create tension and undermine progress.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing issues within family systems.

The OP's not stopping his ex, but he is not participating in the sessions anymore

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

The Reddit post received hundreds of comments, and here are some of the most upvoted ones

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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the a-hole:

I fired our family therapist after disclosing that I had disposable income, and she followed up by asking for "tips." I was so disgusted that I fired her even though my ex was willing to pay.

Trying to trick the OP into a copayment is totally wrong

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

It's fine to think that the OP's time is worth more

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

Studies published in the Journal of Family Psychology show that resistance to therapy often stems from unresolved feelings about past experiences.

When family members feel threatened by the therapeutic process, it can lead to defensiveness and conflict.

Addressing these feelings requires open dialogue about the purpose of therapy and individual goals.

They will want to drop her entirely too

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

The OP is finally not having money worries

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

Strategies for Navigating Resistance in Therapy

Experts recommend creating a safe space for family members to express their concerns about therapy.

Encouraging open discussions about the therapeutic process can alleviate fears and foster cooperation.

Additionally, involving a neutral third party, such as a therapist, can help mediate conflicts that arise during therapy.

She should renegotiate with the OP's insurance company

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

This Redditor is not very familiar with making agreements for a set small amount

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

Some Redditors say that the therapist should renegotiate her policy with the OP's insurance provider, as the OP doesn't have to bear that burden. Some added that it's unlawful, while others say that it's not enough to simply "bill the insurance for more."

For an appointment, the insurance company only pays a specific sum, and it's possible that the insurance hasn't raised the amount in a long time. Still, the OP was declared not the AH, and you can share this post to get other people's verdicts too.

They need to either raise their rates or ask for a raise

Reddit/ConfidentSession7848

Psychological Analysis

This scenario reflects a common challenge in therapy, where resistance can undermine progress.

It's essential to recognize that these feelings often stem from fear of vulnerability, highlighting the need for open dialogue and support.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

This situation highlights the complexities involved in family therapy and the potential for resistance to arise.

Research indicates that addressing these feelings with empathy and open communication can lead to more positive therapeutic outcomes.

Ultimately, fostering a culture of transparency can enhance family relationships and cooperation.

Behavioral research shows that families who engage in open discussions about therapy tend to experience more positive outcomes.

Creating a culture of transparency can enhance trust and cooperation among family members.

Ultimately, prioritizing open communication can lead to healthier family dynamics and more effective therapeutic outcomes.