Hi Guys,
This is a recurring issue that will not go away. I've been a female therapist for 13yrs. I've done hotel visiting, home visits, worked abroad and clinic work. I have always worked on men and found the following works;Hotel visiting lends itself to sexual behaviour due to the nature of hotels the most common place for unwanted suggestions.I've had no problems in clinic.Home visits - generally people don't poo on their own doorsteps - no unwanted attention here either.My recipe for success that I've found when dealing with men is the following;Be professional and boundaried - uniform and business attitude.Check your own energy - "Do you want a man to find you attractive to boost your ego? If so, then you're unconsciously asking for attention"Do you believe all men are sleazy and will try it on eventually? - Like attracts like. I've not found this to be true.I've found men respond to straight talking without fluffy new age speak.I've had my fair share of calls which I put it straight in a direct non-aggressive or offended manner - "I'm strictly therapeutic and if you'd like HR or a BJ (yes I say it to them) then I suggest you look for an escort or prostitute". I usually get an apology and I stress that they need to be clear with their communication and their needs to save any embarrassment or offence.
This issue is not going to go away, we as a profession are stuck with it. We might just need to change how we deal with it.
I have a substantial male client list who are courteous, respectful and very loyal. I wouldn't have such a thriving practice if I left out 50% of the populations simply because of a few silly calls.
Cheers, Sue