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One of the most common fears we hear from people who are reluctant to try therapy is “why would I risk telling a stranger all my problems?” Combined with harmful depictions in popular culture of therapists who behave badly, some people misunderstand therapy as uncharged waters where everything and anything can happen, for better or for worse.
The truth is, therapy is a unique space built on trust and vulnerability. To create this safe space, therapists actually adhere to a strict code of ethics that protects clients and ensures the best possible therapeutic experience. These are some of the critical ethical principles that govern the therapist profession:
Confidentiality
This is probably the most well-known ethical principle. Therapists are required to keep your disclosed information private, with some exceptions (we'll get to those in a moment). This allows you to speak freely and honestly without fear of judgment or your information being shared.
Informed consent
Before therapy begins, your therapist will explain the process, potential risks and benefits, and your rights as a client. You'll then be asked to sign a consent form acknowledging your understanding. This ensures you're making an informed decision about therapy.
Duty to warn
There are some situations where confidentiality may be limited. If your therapist has a good faith belief that you or someone else is at serious risk of severe injury or death, they may be required to report it to the appropriate authorities. This could include situations of child abuse, or planning to attempt acts of violence on yourself or others. (Note for readers: if you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, don’t wait to get help — call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor, or go to your nearest emergency room.)
Dual relationships
Therapists are prohibited from having any type of relationship with their clients outside the therapy room. This includes friendships, romantic relationships, or business partnerships. This ensures your therapist remains objective and avoids any potential conflicts of interest.
Competence
Therapists are required to practice within their scope of competence and limitations. They should be trained and experienced in the treatment approaches they utilize. If they feel a client needs a different type of treatment, they should refer them to another qualified professional.
Professional boundaries
Therapists must maintain appropriate professional boundaries with their clients. This means avoiding self-disclosure that could blur the lines of the therapeutic relationship, such as sharing personal problems or engaging in overly friendly behavior.
Understanding these ethical principles empowers you to participate actively in your therapy. Feel free to ask your therapist about their approach, confidentiality practices, or anything else you need clarification on. If you feel uncomfortable with anything during therapy, speak up! Your therapist should be open to your feedback and ready to ensure that your treatment is adhering to ethical guidelines.
If you're struggling with emotional challenges or simply want to improve your well-being, therapy can be a powerful tool. Explore working with one of our trained, qualified therapists by clicking the button below to schedule a free phone consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!
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