I agree the article isn't exactly dripping with empathy for Jessica, that the characterization is flat and one-sided, that it's primarily about the clinician....But I don't know that there's a complete lack of concern for the client here. It's nothing like the reaction Jessica would get in other settings.

I mean, I got into an argument with a self check-out machine once (long, embarrassing story...I wasn't in a good place) and I don't think anybody in that grocery store was thinking "Wow. This makes me feel totally incompetent and helpless. That person must feel trapped and unable to bring about change in her own life. I think she needs more help than I can provide."

I think they were thinking, "Get out of my store, you crazy *****!" You know, because that's what they said.