Morals & Ethics
Ethical decision-making steps 1 - 4
1. identify the dilemma
2. identify complexities & issues for all involved
3. check ethical codes & guidelines
4. check relevant laws & regulations
Define "Values Imposition"
A therapist's attempt to influence the client to adopt their own values, attitudes, and beliefs.
What is a "special relationship?"
(the therapeutic relationship is one)
What do you do when you receive a subpoena?
1. contact the client
2. get a release of information to call the attorney
3. have the client call the attorney
What is a therapist's Scope of practice?
Legal term that describes procedures, actions, and processes that a therapist may take within the boundaries of their license.
Ethical decision-making steps 5-8 (+10 pt for step 9)
5. gain consultation (seek an expert)
6. consider all courses of action
7. consider all consequences of actions
8. decide
***9. document the process
When would a therapist refer a client out?
1. when the therapist cannot be objective
2. when countertransference is too negative
3. when countertransference is too positive
How do you assess suicide risk?
1. specificity of the plan
2. availability of means
3. previous attempts
4. rehearsal of the plan
When would you report a minor for perpetrating sexual abuse on another minor?
1. if they are 14 years or younger
2. there is coercion, exploitation, or peer-pressure
Define Tarasoff
A break in confidentiality to make a "reasonable effort" to warn both the identified victim and law enforcement of a threat of violence.
What are the 6 pillars of ethics?
autonomy - people can do what they want
non-maleficence - do no harm
beneficence - promote wellbeing for others
fidelity - commitment to the client
justice - fairness for all
veracity - truthfulness
When should a therapist *NOT* refer a client?
1. when the therapist can compartmentalize the countertransference
2. when the countertransference is not extreme
3. when the therapist recognizes the countertransference as a normal process of growth and makes an effort to overcome it
What does an LMFT do?
Practice therapy for marriages, individuals and families to work on the ideal for each relationship
Types of child abuse
1. Physical abuse
2. sexual abuse/exploitation
3. Neglect
4. Willful cruelty or unreasonable punishment
5. Unlawful corporal punishment
6. Child witnessing domestic violence, unjustified mental suffering or potential physical danger
What are the exceptions to confidentiality as defined by the law?
1. The client poses a threat of harm or suicide to him/herself
2. Child abuse
3. Elder abuse or dependent adult abuse
Describe how to increase it.
aspects of psychotherapy that a therapist is competent in.
1. increased education
2. additional supervision or consultation
3. Demonstration of competence over time
Define cultural tunnel vision
perception of reality based on a very limited set of cultural experiences.
What does an LPCC do?
works to remediate cognitive, mental, and emotional issues involving personal growth, adjustment to disability, crisis intervention, and psychosocial problems.
Define "Standard of Care"
The average degree of skill, care, & diligence exercised by members of the same profession in the same locality
Define "Informed Consent" and give details on what it should have in it.
The right of the client to be informed about their therapy and to make autonomous decisions pertaining to it.
1. office policies and procedures
2. Therapist credentials & education
3. Fees & scheduling policies
4. Length of therapy
5. Benefits & risks of treatment
6. Files, Confidentiality, & limits of
7. Diagnosis
What to DO when a suicide attempt is suspected?
1. Increase contact in therapy
2. sign no-harm contract
3. removal of means
4. contact emergency contact
5. refer to doctors for medication assessment
6. voluntary or involuntary hospitalization
Define cultural pluralism
Recognition of the complexity of cultures, and valuing the diversity of beliefs and values
Define a dependent adult
Between age of 18 and 64, with mental, physical and financial limitations that inhibit the normal function to protect his/her rights.
what is the statute of limitations on liability?
up to 3 years from the date of injury or 1 year from the time the client should have discovered the injury
Describe the details pertaining to the treatment of minors
1. Must be 12 years of age or older
2. Outpatient therapy only
3. Must be deemed mature enough to benefit from therapy
4. The provider determines that there is good reason
5. rationale is documented
6. Minor is responsible for fees incurred