As a human service professional in the 21 st century it is more important than ever to recognize
boundaries. Often we will have a tendency to become attached to our clients and vested in their
progress to heal from whatever issues they presented when seeking therapy. Ethical issues can
arise from an overly invested therapist. It is human nature to feel empathy, yet we can sometimes
cross boundaries if clear lines are drawn between our professional responsibilities and personal. I
want to explore this topic in-depth to factor in both sides of the coin. Is it better to air on the side
of caution and not enter into any other relationship with our clients other than a professional on?
Or can we be more effective if we engage in multiple relationships with an individual we
counsel? And what are the ethical ramifications from engaging in a relationship with our clients
that step outside of a professional scope?
I have formulated this essay title based on my reading of chapter 7 in the term book
Text Book for term must be used as 1 of 5 sources for 6 pg. paper
Textbook: Issues and Ethics in the Helping Profession (Eight Edition)
Authors: Gerald Corey; Marianne Schneider Corey; Patrick Callanan
