Dual Relationships and Psychotherapy

The opinions expressed in this publication go directly to the challenges we will collectively face as we enter the 21st century... -- from the Foreword by Patrick H. DeLeon, PhD, JD, ABPP, Past President, American Psychological Association. This volume, through a series of diverse approaches and considerations, has dispelled for all time the monolithic notion that dual relationships are always harmful and should be avoided...remarkable and refreshing.. -- Nicholas A. Cummings, PhD, ScD, Former President., American Psychological Association. This book, the first of its kind, covers the clinical, ethical and legal aspects of non-sexual dual relationships. It provides detailed guidelines on how to navigate the complexities of intended and unintended crossings of the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship. Contributors representing various therapeutic approaches and work settings challenge the prevailing interpretations of ethical standards as presented by the American Psychological and the American Counseling Associations' Code of Ethics. Through case examples, they demonstrate how non-sexual dual relationships may result in increased trust, familiarity, and therapeutic effectiveness. Discussions include concerns of rural, military, church, hearing impaired and other small communities; behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, and feminist views on DR; and more. This is a book for all practicing therapists. Appendices contain guidelines to nonsexual dual relationships in psychotherapy.