Dealing with a difficult patient's family member. Are you prepared to manage your stress effectively?

Clinical supervision is very beneficial. Be authentic and always treat everyone with dignity and respect. Use your own coping strategies when preparing for the session.

Remember that families are seeing things from a different perspective. These perspectives can be very helpful when trying to work with an individual, especially if we only see that individual for an hour (less than) a week. Of course sometimes we have to sift through their emotions and their challenges with this person or each other. But overall, it can be very helpful.

Be respectful with boundaries. Acknowledge individual concerns and viewpoints. Advocate for your client. Debrief with colleagues to gather support, insight and ideas.