Course Description:

This course is based on an article by Gutheil and Gabbard that systematically examines “the concept of boundaries and boundary violations in clinical practice.”  The article reviews relevant literature on the subject and identifies crucial areas that explain the difference between harmful and nonharmful boundary issues that are not sexual misconduct.   According to the abstract, “While broad guidelines are helpful, the specific impact of a particular boundary crossing can only be assessed by careful attention to the clinical context. Heightened awareness of the concepts of boundaries, boundary crossings, and boundary violations will both improve patient care and contribute to effective risk management.”

 This course serves as an excellent resource for health professionals who require continuing education in the subject of ethics.  It helps to build clinical skills in decision making within the therapeutic context as a means to earn CEUs. 

Psychologists, social workers, mental health counselors, marriage & family therapists, and nurses can benefit from this course and earn continuing education credits. This course may also be helpful for other practitioners, such as midwives and dieticians and nutritionists who may also need CEs in ethics and want a framework for ethical decision making with clients.

This course is appropriate for intermediate and advanced level practitioners who wish to learn more about ethics, boundaries and ethical decision making.  It is also a good resource for licensed professionals who need continuing education.  .

Authors:  Gutheil, T. G. & Gabbard, G. O.  -  Get article here

Learning Objectives:  This course will provide a professional with detailed information about ethics and boundaries in psychotherapy.  Specifically, a professional will:

·     Distinguish between harmful and nonharmful boundary issues.

·     Identify boundary crossings that may improve patient care and contribute to effective risk management.

·     Identify specific areas in which nonsexual boundary violations are possible.

Citation:  Gutheil, T. G. & Gabbard, G. O. (retrieved 2010).  The Concept of Boundaries in Clinical Practice:  Theoretical and Risk-Management Dimensions.  Retrieved from: kspope.com on 7/2/2010.