What is the worst mental health advice/treatment you ever received from a mental health professional? originally appeared on Quora: the place to gain and share knowledge, empowering people to learn from others and better understand the world.
Answer by Dr. Abbie Maroño, PhD in Psychology and Behavior Analysis, on Quora:
When we turn to mental health professionals, it is often during our most vulnerable moments, seeking support and guidance to navigate through challenging times. These practitioners play a crucial role in nurturing our wellbeing and aiding in our recovery process. The field of mental health is of paramount importance, and it’s worth noting that the vast majority of professionals within this industry are not only well-trained but are exceptional in their dedication to supporting the mental and emotional health of their clients. Their expertise and compassionate care are invaluable to individuals and communities alike. However, as in any profession, there can be instances where the standard of care does not meet expectations, leading to outcomes that can be detrimental.
An example of such a situation involves a person with a complex psychological profile, including a history of extreme violent behavior, delusions of grandeur, a clinically recognized deficit in empathy, and a disregard for personal life. This individual also exhibited signs of diverting responsibility for actions due to external influences, such as tarot readings, and had a history of obsessive behavior and non-consensual aggressive advances. These characteristics are indicative of a person who poses a significant risk to themselves and others, particularly in the context of forming new personal relationships.
In this case, the clinician’s advice for the individual to seek out a romantic partner as part of their journey through PTSD was profoundly misguided. This recommendation overlooked the potential danger to others and the