I have read that therapists are perhaps not supposed to accept gifts from their clients for ethical reasons (although all the articles I could find did come from the US). Is this a general rule? I have my last appointment with the psychotherapist I've been seeing once a fortnight for 8 years now in a couple of weeks and I was planning to buy something small (like, under $25) to give at my last appointment with a nice card, I feel like it's the least I can do for somebody who has honestly changed my life for the better, but now I'm not sure?
Anyone else know any more about whether this is acceptable, or has anybody given a gift to a psychologist/therapist when they were finishing treatment before?
I gave my therapist a gift.She was pregnant at the time. I would have given her something regardless. I think it's a personal choice. She was very appreciative and it was a small gesture on my part.
I think it is entirely appropriate to give small tokens of appreciation and provided they are not overly personal or too expensive I'm sure would be received in the spirit they were given and not be an ethical problem. Medical personnel are human beings too:)
I've given gifts to therapists, GPs and psychiatrists, typically a bottle or similar in the Festive Season or on parting. I once gave one a pocket flashlight when I left his practice as he been able to light my way.
I have given gifts to my doctor, psychologist and even my vet, there is nothing wrong with doing so, it's your appreciation for being able to connect with them and to be able to talk.
The gift I gave my doctor on my last appointment with me, we both cried. Geoff.
While I have not given a gift per se, I have sent an email of thanks (from the airport) for all the help they provided to that point in time. I got a "thank you" email back for the kind words expressed. A small token of appreciation as Geoff suggested... but goes a long way.
