Question 1

The practitioner will clarify

Accepted Answer

At the onset of the helping relationship, it is essential for the practitioner to clarify who is/is not the client, the focus of the therapy, and other foundational aspects of the therapeutic process to ensure clear communication and understanding between the practitioner and the client(s).

Question 2

When gaining informed consent, the practitioner

Accepted Answer

Gaining informed consent involves ensuring that the client or clients fully understand the nature of the therapy, including the limits of confidentiality, and agree to the terms of treatment. A signed acknowledgment of consent is a common and recommended practice to document that this understanding and agreement have been achieved. Consent should be obtained from all parties involved in therapy, not just one of the clients when there are more than one. It's important to go over all limits of confidentiality, not just those thought to be relevant, to ensure clients are fully informed. Working with couples can present unique challenges and is not necessarily easier than working with individuals, as it involves navigating the dynamics and interests of two people instead of one.

Question 3

Working with couples and groups

Accepted Answer

Working with couples and groups has greater implications for confidentiality because it involves multiple participants, making it more challenging to ensure that all shared information remains confidential among the group members.

Question 4

Ethical ways to help with confidentiality in couples and groups include

Accepted Answer

Having members of the group sign a confidentiality agreement is an ethical way to help maintain confidentiality in couples and group settings. This approach helps set clear expectations about privacy and the importance of respecting each other's information.

Question 5

Boundary crossing when working with couples and groups

Accepted Answer

Boundary crossing in professional settings, especially when working with couples and groups, should be avoided to maintain professionalism and ethical standards.

Question 6

Ethical practitioners

Accepted Answer

Ethical practitioners balance the needs of the individual with the needs of the group, ensuring that interventions and practices support both individual and group goals. This approach respects the autonomy and dignity of each group member while also fostering a cohesive and supportive group environment.

Question 7

Screening for potential group members

Accepted Answer

Screening for potential group members helps practitioners identify individuals who may not be a good fit for the group, either because their needs do not align with the group's purpose or because their presence might be disruptive. This process is crucial for maintaining a productive and safe environment for all group members.

Question 8

Practitioners who work with groups or couples

Accepted Answer

Practitioners working with groups or couples should have specialized training in these areas to effectively manage the dynamics and challenges that can arise, ensuring they provide appropriate and effective support.

Question 9

When an individual privately shares something to the practitioner and the practitioner is working with the entire family

Accepted Answer

When working with families, a practitioner may share information disclosed in private if it directly contributes to addressing or improving unhealthy family dynamics. This is done with careful consideration of confidentiality and the potential benefits to the family's overall well-being.

Question 10

Practitioners working with couples and groups may

Accepted Answer

Practitioners working with couples and groups may consider adding an addendum to the informed consent to address the unique dynamics and confidentiality issues that arise in group settings.

Quiz 13: Ethical Challenges Working With Groups, Couples, and Families