How do counsellors having menopausal symptoms experience their client work: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

Aim The aim of this study was to discover whether menopausal symptoms have implications for counsellors in their therapeutic work. Method Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with three counsellors who have experienced menopausal symptoms. The menopause is a unique experience for the individual. Interpretative phenomenological analysis therefore allowed for a detailed exploration of the participants' experiences. Findings Four superordinate themes were identified: transitioning personal and professional identity during menopause; limited dialogue about the menopause; ethical dilemmas of practising as a counsellor when menopausal; and the influence of menopausal symptoms during client work. The findings demonstrated that participants each had very personal and individual experiences of the menopause. A lack of knowledge and understanding of the menopause and limited dialogue within society to discuss symptoms was also reflected in the counselling profession. The capacity to continue working therapeutically presented potential ethical dilemmas which were affected by menopausal symptoms. Conclusion Counsellors' experiences of menopausal symptoms may create challenges in their therapeutic work, ranging from a mild distraction, a disconnection with a client, to having to cease engaging with client work. Implications for therapeutic practice are discussed.

“Let’s see what happens:”—Women’s experiences of open-label placebo treatment for menopausal hot flushes in a randomized controlled trial

“…Correspondingly, the researcher conducts an in-depth analysis per case before comparing narratives between cases and extracting common themes [20]. IPA has been frequently applied in medical research [19] and when investigating women's experiences during menopause [e.g., 21,22].…”

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“…Self‐care is also reported in this literature so women can ensure they are always fit for work. Counsellor Janet looked after herself especially well during days off, ‘to allow me to be ready and fit to go to clients’ (Bodza et al., 2019, p. 550). Here then women use symptom‐specific strategies including: workplace ‘kit’ like blankets or sanitary protection caches, clothing, deliberate absence and self‐care to mould their bodies for and at work.…”