Self-determination in the doctor’s/therapist’s office
Self-determination is an increasingly important concept within the broad field of health care that is often used in combination with “client-centeredness”, or “person-centeredness”, to emphasize the right of clients to make independent decisions in the process of receiving care and rehabilitation. Many counselling practices, my own included, use a person-centered approach to counselling. This person-centered approach is a much-appreciated concept in medical care these days, particularly for patients dealing with complex and long-term diagnoses like MS and Parkinsons.
Self-determination can be loosely summarized as a person’s right to decide for him-/herself. We patients practice self-determination when we discuss our proposed medical treatments in our doctor’s offices, or mental health concerns with our therapists. When was the last time you asked your doctor for a medical treatment that you felt was right for you? Is your doctor open to a patient’s right to practice self-determination?
hi @HeidiHelps :) unfortunately, I wasn't lucky to find a caring neurologist here in Canada and Brazil who would be open and provide space for me to practice self-determination. Nice to e-meet you! I am also a psychologist and I live close - in Vancouver. That's a very interesting topic!
Too true. We have to take the reins ourselves. This can be empowering for some, and overwhelming for others 🤷♀️. Depends on many factors. I guess that means health care professionals have determine how to help each person individually. Super difficult in short appointments and challenging health care settings 🤷♀️. Great post to get us thinking 🤔.