Sage-Tips

Is it appropriate for a therapist to hug a patient?

Hugs may be acceptable in therapy, and sometimes they aren’t. This is all dependent on various factors in the therapeutic relationship and individual characteristics of you and your therapist. Remember, your relationship with your clinician can be close — but it should remain a professional one.

When are hugs appropriate?

If a colleague or friend has just received great news such as a winning scholarship or winning the lottery, it could be appropriate to give them a hug. If you are close with them and it looks like they want to share the joy of their news, consider giving them a hug. Give someone a hug if they just had some bad news.

Are psychiatrists allowed to hug patients?

No physical contact is the general rule. We have a Code of Ethics which we must abide by. Generally frowned upon, seen as a breach of “boundaries”. Some psychologists, like some other people, are not keen on hugging in general, and are therefore less likely to be inclined to hug.

What is the best way to hug someone?

Use A Light Touch To Start Avoid hugging the person too tightly. The best way to judge how tightly or loosely to hug is to let whomever you’re hugging indicate what they want by how hard they squeeze. If they are soft, be soft back; if they like bear hugs and squeeze tightly, hug back the same way.

What are the information appropriate during the counseling session with patients?

Assess the patient’s knowledge about his or her health problems and medications. Asses their capability to use the medications appropriately, and attitude toward the health problems and medications. Ask the patient to describe or show how he or she will use the medication.

How do you give the best hug?

8-Step Guide to an Awesome Hug

1. Hug like you mean it. Hugging some people is like hugging a telephone pole.
2. Be willing to be vulnerable. Open your arms.
3. Close your eyes.
4. Breathe into the embrace.
5. Lean into the embrace.
6. Squeeze, but don’t suffocate.
7. Just BE with the person you’re embracing.
8. Let go.