Is it Permissible to Bestow a Present on My Mental Health Professional?

Is It Acceptable to Present a Gift to My Mental Health Professional?

, and Administrator

2025 September 6 . 8:13 PM

2 min read

Is it permissible to bestow a present upon a psychiatrist?

Is it Permissible to Bestow a Present on My Mental Health Professional?

In the professional world of psychology, psychotherapists in Germany are the group most frequently refraining from accepting gifts or Christmas cards from their clients. This decision is not a sign of impersonality, but rather a conscious effort to maintain a clear boundary between therapist and client, ensuring the therapeutic relationship remains professional.

The meaning that gifts may denote can often be a cause for concern for therapists. While asking a therapist if they accept Christmas presents from clients will not be seen as inappropriate, it's always best to approach the topic with thoughtfulness. If a therapist does not accept gifts, a holiday card can be considered as a thoughtful gesture.

It's important to remember that the therapeutic relationship is a professional one, despite discussing personal and emotional topics. Most therapists seek to maintain this professionalism during psychotherapy, and in some professions, such as psychology, gifts from clients are actively discouraged.

If you're unsure about a therapist's policy on gifts, it's appropriate to ask directly. Therapists will usually answer questions about their policies with honesty and openness. If a therapist does accept gifts, it's advisable to keep them inexpensive (under $20), specific, and related to the therapist's interests. A gift card to a favourite local eating place, for example, could be an appropriate choice.

On the other hand, some therapists may be more accepting of receiving a holiday card from a client. If you choose to send a card, it's important to check with your therapist first to ensure it's acceptable.

The line between therapist and paid friend is often kept clear to avoid complicating the relationship. Therapists refer to this line as a boundary. It's crucial to respect this boundary to ensure the effectiveness of the therapy sessions.

In summary, while gift-giving or card-giving to a therapist is likely to be a one-way street, it's always appropriate to ask your therapist about their preferences. By doing so, you can ensure that your gestures are received in the spirit they are intended – as a token of appreciation for the help and support provided during your therapy sessions.