What do rescue fantasies create in client relationships?

Rescue fantasies in client relationships refer to a dynamic where a practitioner feels the need to save or fix the client, which often leads to the development of an unhealthy dependency. When a practitioner engages in rescue fantasies, they may unintentionally foster an environment where the client feels reliant on the practitioner for solutions, rather than empowering them to make decisions and take charge of their own health.

This dependency can compromise the objectivity of the professional relationship, as the practitioner's personal feelings or desires to help may cloud their judgment and hinder their ability to provide unbiased guidance. These dynamics can prevent clients from developing essential skills for self-management and autonomy, which are crucial for long-term success in their dietary and health-related goals.

In contrast to dependency, strong professional boundaries and enhanced self-efficacy are achieved through empowering clients and fostering their independence, rather than engaging in rescue fantasies. Therefore, the creation of dependency and compromised objectivity is a clear outcome of these rescue fantasies in client relationships.