Ethics of Boundaries and Dual Relationships in Mental Health

Course overview

This workshop explores the ethical considerations surrounding professional boundaries and dual relationships in mental health practice. Clinicians will examine key ethical principles and standards that guide decision-making when navigating potential or existing dual relationships. Participants will review categories of dual relationships and identify critical factors that influence ethical decision-making, including context, power dynamics, and risk of harm. Emphasis will be placed on applying critical thinking skills to evaluate complex clinical scenarios and determine appropriate professional boundaries. Special consideration will be given to diversity-related factors, such as rural practice settings, gender, and age, that may influence the nature and ethical implications of dual relationships. Through discussion and case-based exploration, participants will strengthen their clinical judgment in assessing and managing ethical dilemmas related to professional roles and relationships. THIS COURSE WILL MEET THE NYS REQUIREMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO RECEIVE 3 HOURS OF TRAINING ON MAINTAINING APPROPRIATE PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES (effective April 2023). THIS COURSE IS NOT NEW YORK STATE SPECIFIC, AND CAN SATISFY ETHICS AND BOUNDARIES TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR ANY STATE.