a. What are some of the ethical tasks necessary with establishing a new therapeutic relationship?
b. What information goes into an informed consent? What are the limitations of confidentiality?
c. Define a dual relationship. How might a dual relationship cause damage?
Sample Answer
Establishing a new therapeutic relationship requires a delicate balance of clinical skill and ethical vigilance. The goal is to create a safe "containment" for the client while protecting their rights and the integrity of the profession.
a. Ethical Tasks in Establishing a New Relationship
Before the deep clinical work begins, the therapist must perform several "foundational" ethical tasks:
Assessment of Competence: The clinician must honestly determine if they have the specific training and expertise to treat the client's particular issues (e.g., eating disorders, PTSD, or addiction).
Clarification of Roles: The therapist must define the professional nature of the relationship, ensuring the client understands that the therapist is a provider, not a friend or a "fixer."
Screening for Conflicts of Interest: The therapist must ensure they do not have a prior or current relationship with the client or someone close to the client that would impair their objectivity.
Cultural Humility: The clinician should acknowledge any cultural differences and commit to ongoing self-education to avoid imposing their own values on the client.