Both patients and therapists often live with the myth that therapists are supposed to be selfless when they deal with patients. It is true that therapists must not exploit their patients for personal gratification or gain. But it is unreasonable to expect that they would be willing to expose themselves to all manner of personal risk in the interest of treatment. That would be denying the humanity of therapists. And if we did not share the vulnerability of the human condition, we could not empathize with our patients and would indeed be powerless to help them.
Patients do have power to alleviate some of their therapists' concerns.
Going into therapy with realistic expectations, and especially an understanding that therapy takes time, can be helpful. Refraining from challenges and ultimatums and being willing to set realistic short-term goals can also help. A willingness to include family members in the process in some way so that they do not feel completely excluded, can avoid the development of conflict around their treatment and make the process easier for everyone involved.