Can therapist see family members?

As long as the counselor maintains objectivity, it may be permissible for him or her to treat a relative. It is always wise to consult with another counselor prior to accepting a family member as a client to ensure that all aspects of the situation have been reviewed.

Can a client see two counselors at the same time?

Turns out it’s pretty easy to find resources and articles that say no, it’s not recommended. The reasons given (often by therapists) include splitting, conflicting treatment plans, creating secrets (especially if they aren’t aware of each other or aren’t in communication).

Is premarital counseling confidential?

If you are in couples therapy, then the rules of confidentiality are set up front. Couples therapists are encouraged to have a “no secrets” rule, meaning that the therapist cannot “hold” sensitive information from one or the other participants.

Can therapist hug client?

A therapist can hug a client if they think it may be productive to the treatment. A therapist initiating a hug in therapy depends on your therapist’s ethics, values, and assessment of whether an individual client feels it will help them.

Can counselors be friends with clients?

Client-therapist friendships can be unethical, according to codes of ethics from many bodies that govern therapists, including the American Psychological Association [APA]. By becoming friends with a client, a therapist can risk disciplinary action from governing bodies or losing licensure.

What is a no secrets policy in therapy?

This “no secrets policy” is intended to treat the patient (the couple or the family unit) by preventing, to the extent possible, a conflict of interest to arise where an individual’s interests may not be consistent with the interests of the unit being treated.

What is dual relationships in counseling?

Dual relationships (also known as “multiple relationships”), refer to a situation in which multiple roles exist between a therapist and a client. For example, when a client is also a friend or family member, it is considered a dual relationship.