Exploring Dual Relationships and Boundary Crossings in Ethical Clinical Practice

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How to Take This Course:

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• 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
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Target Audience: Psychologists
Instructional Level: Introductory

CE Course Description

Dual relationships in behavioral health practice refer to any situations where multiple roles exist between a therapist and a client. Examples of dual relationships include when the client is also a student, friend, family member, employee, or business associate of the therapist. Boundary crossings and violations may occur in situations where dual relationships exist. While boundary crossings may be unavoidable and harmless in certain situations, such as when the clinician and client both live in a small community and see each other away from the therapeutic setting, boundary violations are those that are harmful and exploitative. Therefore, this course will identify strategies for behavioral health providers to mitigate engaging in dual relationships to improve ethical clinical practice.

Courseware Supervisor: Ryan C. Warner, Ph.D., CRC
Author: Kimberley Fortin, LCSW-R

CE Course Objectives

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the legal, ethical, and clinical issues involved with dual relationships.
2. Recognize the difference between boundary crossing and boundary violation.
3. Identify criteria for evaluating 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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