Recently, I began teaching Abnormal Psychology at Sara Schenirer College, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite parts of the week. (My favorite favorite part is when they call me “Professor” - I laugh every time- it’s awesome.) The students are engaged and curious, (and many signed up to the newsletter so shout out to them !) which feels like an amazing way for me to give back to the world of therapy and psychology. One important lesson I’m trying to instill is that many topics—whether in psychology or life in general—can have two valid sides. It’s crucial to understand both perspectives, whether or not you agree with them. Often, as I’ve learned from the therapy room and beyond, you might even find yourself agreeing with both opposing viewpoints.

I bring up the topic of dating/ marriage in class to keep their attention (my trick, shh)  and yes, this is a skill you need for those as well!

To bring home this point, I’ve given my students an assignment to present a controversial topic that relates to therapy - and I’m so excited to see them present their topics in the coming weeks. Below is an example of what I expect.  

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In the world of therapy: Should Clients Have Access to Their Therapist's Notes?  

This is a question that often sparks strong opinions, and it’s easy to see why.  

On the "pro" side, having access to your therapist’s notes can be empowering. After all, it’s your story, your journey, your life—why wouldn’t you want to understand how it’s being processed? Transparency fosters trust and can deepen the therapeutic relationship. Reading notes after a session, when you’re more removed and perhaps calmer, can offer a fascinating glimpse into how your therapist views your progress. It may reveal patterns or insights you hadn’t noticed. For some, it’s a way to feel more in control of their growth, almost like getting a peek behind the curtain. Some clients even find that seeing the therapist’s perspective can boost their self-esteem and confidence.

On the flip side, though, therapy notes are shorthand for the therapist’s internal use, not a detailed transcript of your sessions. They often contain clinical language or observations that could feel cold or be misinterpreted without context. For example, a note that says "client displays defensive tendencies" is not a judgment—it’s a tool for the therapist to better understand how to help you moving forward. But out of context, it could sting. Additionally, if therapists know their notes will be shared, it might impact how they write them, potentially affecting their authenticity. In my own practice, I use shorthand and often write down clients' exact words to help me remember exactly what they said, assess their progress and set goals. This is why therapists are cautious about sharing notes—they want to make sure they’re constructive, not confusing, and don’t hurt the client relationship. 

If you’re curious about what’s in your therapist’s notes—and many clients are—I encourage you to start a conversation about it.  

Oftentimes, what clients are really asking when they request notes is: “Therapist, I feel lost. I don’t feel qualified to run my own life. If only you could tell me exactly what to do, think, say, or feel…”  

But here's the thing, and trust me on this: We therapists don’t have all the answers. Clients sometimes believe we’re withholding crucial information, thinking that if they just had access to this “magical” knowledge that we have, they’d have their life figured out. And often, our response back is:  

“You’ve got this. I’m here to help, but the answers are within you.”  

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Shifi