Setting clear boundaries with clients
Professional boundaries are the foundation of a safe working environment. When you work in one-on-one client facing environments, whether this is in a private studio, a home setting or a clinic space, having clear and consistent boundaries can help to protect both you and your clients.
Before the first appointment
Make sure your client is easily able to see your policies (including cancellation policy), payment terms, and a clear statement to show what your service includes/does not include. You may choose to send clients an intake form beforehand for them to fill out prior to coming to their appointment, or to schedule a short consultation with them to check the service they are booking is appropriate - whatever works to help you feel most safe and comfortable.
During sessions
Remember to trust your insticts! If something feels "off" make sure to pay attention to that feeling. You do not have to keep working with clients that make you feel unsafe, and you are always entitled to end an appointment early. This can also be related to scenarios where a client may behave innapropriately (this is why it can be so important to include things like this in your policies).
The right to refuse
You have the absolute right to refuse or stop an appointment with a client at any time. You do not have to justify the exact reason if you are not fully comfortable to. It may be hard but try not to overexplain if you can - this is honestly something I have struggled with in the past, but it can make the situation even harder to navigate. If a client has behaved inappropriately that is making you question your safety with this person, you do not need to carry on with the appointment.
Depending on the services you offer and the situation you may be in, some examples can include:
"I am not able to carry on with our appointments, please seek advice from your doctor/GP to discuss suitable treatment options."
"*insert innapropiate behaviour* goes against my policies which were explained to you at your first appointment, unfortunately I do not feel comfortable to continue with your *insert service* today."
Setting boundaries can be hard, but not setting a boundary can make it even harder to deal with in future.