What Bad Therapy Taught Me About Good Therapy

Therapy is often described as a safe and healing space, but that’s not always the reality. In this episode of This Complex Life, I sit down with Carrie Wiita, adjunct professor, consultant, and creator of Interpersonal Branding, to explore what bad therapy can teach us about being better therapists and more empowered clients.

We talked about what happens when therapy misses the mark, why repair skills are crucial, and how both therapists and clients can work together to build a safe, supportive relationship.

Whether you’re a therapist wanting to grow your skills or someone navigating therapy, this conversation highlights why honesty, transparency, and fit are at the heart of meaningful therapeutic work.

We explore:

• How defensiveness can damage the client–therapist relationship

• Why rupture and repair is one of the most important therapeutic skills

• The role of client expectations in therapy outcomes

• How deliberate practice builds confidence and skill

• Why talking about therapy’s side effects matters

• How marketing and branding can help clients find the right fit

• Practical advice for clients to ask the right questions

• Why mistakes in therapy are inevitable but repair is possible

Resources:

• Santio Counselling Centre

• Inside Social Work Podcast

• Get Ready for Therapy Guide

Connected Teens

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