Exploring Dual Relationships and Boundary Crossings in Ethical Clinical Practice

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How to Take This Course:

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Target Audience: Psychologists
Instructional Level: Introductory

CE Course Description

In the field of psychology, dual relationships arise when a psychologist and a client navigate multiple roles simultaneously. This intricate dynamic can manifest in various ways, as clients take on roles such as students, friends, family members, employees, or business associates of the psychologist. Maintaining professional boundaries becomes paramount in these situations due to the potential for boundary crossings and violations. Some instances of boundary crossings may be unavoidable and relatively harmless, especially in close-knit communities where psychologist-client interactions extend beyond the therapeutic setting. This homestudy course places a key focus on exploring the critical distinction presented by boundary violations – situations fraught with harm and exploitation. By delving into the intricacies of dual or multiple relationships that may emerge during interactions with clients, the course sheds light on relationships spanning professional, social, or business interactions, occurring either simultaneously or consecutively. A foundational principle underscored is the imperative to avoid dual or multiple relationships when there is a foreseeable risk of exploitation or harm to the client. In scenarios where such relationships are unavoidable, the course guides psychologists in implementing measures to safeguard clients. Emphasis is placed on establishing clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive boundaries. Through an exploration of various case studies, participants gain practical insights into the application of ethical considerations in real-world scenarios, fostering responsible and client-centered professional conduct.

Courseware Supervisor: Ryan C. Warner, Ph.D., CRC

Author: Kimberley Fortin, LCSW-R

CE Course Objectives

1. Explain the legal, ethical, and clinical intricacies inherent in dual relationships for post-doctoral psychologists.
2. Describe the difference between permissible boundary crossings and ethically questionable boundary violations within multifaceted therapeutic relationships. 
3. Identify criteria for evaluating and navigating dual relationships and boundaries.

Activity Schedule/Outline - Ongoing/Self-Paced

1. Introduction
2. Boundaries, Boundary Crossings & Boundary Violations
3. Dual Relationships
4. Boundaries and Technology
5. Professional Associations Stance on Dual Relationships
6. Decision Making Process for Dual Relationships 
7. Clear Boundaries to Avoid Unethical Behavior
8. Unethical Dual Relationships & Sexual Misconduct
9. Addressing Attraction to Clients
10. Reporting Violations
11. Additional Considerations
12. Case Studies
13. Conclusion
14. References

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Course Date: 2023-05-22

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