Edge of the Couch

When Clients Set Unrealistic Expectations

Jordan Pickell and Alison McCleary Season 8 Episode 2

What happens when a client expects therapy to “fix” them or assumes their therapist will always have the wise, perfect answer? In this episode, we explore how to set realistic expectations around the therapy process, the therapist’s role, and how change actually happens. How do we balance validating our clients’ hopes while grounding them in what therapy can (and can’t) do?

Join us on Patreon for bonus content at www.patreon.com/edgeofthecouch or share your thoughts and questions via DM on Instagram @edgeofthecouchpod, email at connect@edgeofthecouch.com, or voice note at speakpipe.com/edgeofthecouch.

We have partnered with Janeapp, an all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign up.

Alison McCleary
www.alpenglowcounselling.com
@alpenglow_counselling on Instagram

Jordan Pickell
www.jordanpickellcounselling.ca
@jordanpickellcounselling on Instagram

Edge of the Couch
www.edgeofthecouch.com
@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram


Leading Edge Seminars is bringing their sought-after EMDR training to Toronto and Halifax. This isn’t just any EMDR training—it's developed and taught by Roy Kiessling, the creator of a new streamlined version of EMDR.

Use code EDGE100 at checkout to receive $100 off. Head to LeadingEdgeSeminars.org to grab your spot today.

Toronto: August 11-15, 2025
Halifax: July 21 – 25, 2025

Join us on Patreon for bonus content at www.patreon.com/edgeofthecouch or share your thoughts and questions via DM on Instagram @edgeofthecouchpod, email at connect@edgeofthecouch.com, or voice note at speakpipe.com/edgeofthecouch.

We have partnered with Janeapp, an all-in-one practice management software. You can learn more at Jane.app/mentalhealth. Or, if you are ready to get started, mention Edge of the Couch in the note during sign up.

Alison McCleary
www.alpenglowcounselling.com
@alpenglow_counselling on Instagram

Jordan Pickell
www.jordanpickellcounselling.ca
@jordanpickellcounselling on Instagram

Edge of the Couch
www.edgeofthecouch.com
@edgeofthecouchpod on Instagram