In our field, we are constantly evolving. Therapy is not static, it breathes, shifts, and transforms with the times. As technology advances, so do our practices and professional boundaries. One trending topic stirring strong opinions lately is whether or not to block a client.
Therapists, especially those in provisional roles, are becoming increasingly mindful about guarding their boundaries and ensuring their own safety and wellbeing, which is valid and necessary. However, there’s a growing concern around the “how” of boundary setting. Specifically, many therapists are blocking clients without providing context or communication, which can cause unintended harm.
Setting Boundaries vs. Abandonment: A Fine Line
Yes, there are situations where blocking a client is absolutely appropriate:
- You feel unsafe or harassed
- The therapeutic relationship is no longer effective or appropriate
- The client is not respecting reasonable boundaries
But here’s the most important part: Before hitting “block,” therapists must communicate clearly and ethically with the client about what’s happening. Blocking without warning can easily be perceived as abandonment, especially if the client is vulnerable or already feeling rejected.
The American Counseling Association Code of Ethics (2014) emphasizes that counselors must “avoid abandoning or neglecting clients in counseling” (A.12). Communication, appropriate referral, and documentation are required steps before terminating or disengaging.
Imagine a client who’s in distress, trying to reach out, only to find they’ve been blocked with no explanation. In today’s culture, blocking equates to ghosting. And ghosting, especially in therapy, can feel like a betrayal. As providers, we must model healthy communication, even in difficult moments.
When Boundaries Are Blurred
Consider these common scenarios:
- A client texts repeatedly outside business hours.
- Don’t respond in the moment, but bring it up in session. Say, “It seems like you’ve been needing extra support lately, let’s talk more during your appointment.”
- A client calls at all hours.
- Instead of engaging by phone, wait until the session and set the boundary: “I’m not available outside our scheduled time, but I’m here for you during sessions.”
- Clients treat texting as an extension of therapy.
- Gently clarify that outside communication isn’t part of the therapy process.
If you don’t reinforce boundaries early and consistently, clients may assume ongoing access is acceptable. This not only blurs lines but also puts your license at risk. Over-communicating between sessions (especially undocumented) is a major liability.
Blocking with Care: The Right Way
If you’ve exhausted your options and determine that blocking is necessary, do it with professionalism and empathy.
- Communicate your intent clearly in writing or conversation:
“At this time, I believe another provider may be a better fit for your needs. I recommend contacting [Referral Name/Resource].”
2. Offer a warm closure:
“I truly wish you the best on your journey. If you’re unable to reach the referral, our main office can assist you.”
3. Inform them of the block (if needed):
“Following this message, I will be discontinuing communication via this number due to the nature of our previous exchanges.”
4. Document everything for your protection.
Blocking shouldn’t be the first step, it should be the last, after all other ethical steps have been taken. As therapists, we don’t get to opt out of tough conversations. That’s part of the job.
Things to Consider
Blocking a client may seem like the easiest option at the moment, but when done without care, it risks harming the therapeutic relationship, your reputation, and your license. If you’re a provisional or associate-level clinician, talk with your supervisor. If you’re a supervisor, help your supervisees navigate these moments with clarity and integrity.
We cannot ghost our clients. We must model the very behaviors we hope to foster in them: clear communication, respect, and boundaries.
