Is It Okay to Give My Therapist A Holiday Gift?

The holiday season often inspires us to show appreciation to those who’ve supported us throughout the year, including our therapists. When it comes to giving a holiday gift to your therapist, there are some important considerations. Here's what you should know.

Holiday Gifts For Therapists: Acknowledging Good Intentions

If you’re considering giving a gift, it likely comes from a place of gratitude, and that’s wonderful! It’s perfectly normal to feel appreciative of your therapist and to want to express that during the holidays. But it's important to be mindful of how gifts might affect the boundaries that help make therapy effective.

FYI: Therapists May Decline Gifts

Therapists generally cannot accept gifts of significant monetary value due to ethical guidelines. Accepting expensive or elaborate gifts can complicate the therapeutic relationship by creating a sense of obligation or imbalance in power. A unique or very personal gift could unintentionally break confidentiality if the therapist is asked about the origin of a specific item, such as artwork or a handmade piece that’s easily traceable. These are a few of many reasons your therapist may decline a gift. Please know that their decline is not a reflection of how they feel about you.

Inappropriate Gifts For Therapists

Here’s a short list of inappropriate gifts for your therapist:

• Expensive Items: Anything of significant monetary value. This blurs the boundaries of therapy. Your therapist is compensated for their services, either by you or through an insurance company. You don't need to "tip" them. In fact, accepting extra money or tips is not allowed by therapist ethical guidelines.

• Personalized Jewelry: This can feel too intimate or personal.

• Large or Unique Art Pieces: This may break confidentiality if it’s easily recognizable.

• Gift Cards: These can imply a monetary exchange that complicates the professional relationship.

• Alcohol: This can be seen as inappropriate in a therapeutic setting. It also assumes your therapist enjoys or drinks alcohol.

• Anything Romantic Or Sexual. Professional therapy never, ever includes sexual or romantic interaction between therapist and client. Even if it's a joke, giving a romantic or sexual gift may put your therapist in an uncomfortable situation or complicate your relationship.

Stick to simple, thoughtful gestures that respect the boundaries of therapy.

Appropriate Gifts For Your Therapist: Thoughtful Yet Simple

Instead of a high-value gift, consider something small, simple, and thoughtful. These are more likely to be appreciated without complicating the professional dynamic. Here are some appropriate ideas:

• A Handwritten Card. A heartfelt note expressing your appreciation is always a meaningful way to communicate gratitude.

• A Drawing. If you’re artistically inclined, a small piece of your own work can be a nice, personal touch. This should be small and not something you'd expect them to display. You may not want to sign the work to protect your confidentiality.

• A Plate of Cookies. If you love baking, a small, homemade treat can be a kind gesture.

• A Favorite Book. Sharing a book that you’ve enjoyed can be a thoughtful, personal gift without crossing boundaries.

• A Beloved Recipe. Passing along a favorite recipe is a simple, creative way to share something meaningful without it being overly personal.

Be Ready for a Conversation

Your therapist may want to discuss the gift with you, exploring its meaning and significance. This isn’t meant to make you feel uncomfortable, but rather to ensure that the therapeutic boundaries remain clear and that any emotions surrounding the gift are addressed.

For example, your therapist might gently ask:

• “How do you feel about giving me a gift?”

• "Is there something you're trying to communicate through this gift?"

• “What made you want to give this gift?”

This conversation can lead to insights about your feelings and about therapy, helping you reflect on your relationship with your therapist and how you express gratitude in general.

Do You Need to Give Your Therapist a Gift?

Definitely not! You don’t need to give your therapist a gift at all. Simply showing up for therapy and engaging in the process is enough. The gift of your commitment to your own well-being is something your therapist values deeply.

If you’re unsure about whether a gift is appropriate, consider asking your therapist about their policy. They’ll be happy to clarify and discuss it with you.

Thoughtful Giving, Clear Boundaries

While it’s a kind gesture to want to express your appreciation through a gift, therapists are bound by ethical guidelines to maintain a clear boundary between personal and professional dynamics. The best approach is to offer something simple, thoughtful, and low in monetary value, or even just a heartfelt “thank you.” Your therapist values your growth and participation in therapy above any material gift.

In Person Therapy In Los Angeles

If you're looking to start work with a therapist in Los Angeles, reach out for a consultation today. Our therapists use holistic and evidence-based approaches to help you become the best version of yourself.