Why should a counselor not enter into a professional relationship with a friend or family member?

Your therapist should not be a close friend because that would create what’s called a dual relationship, something that is unethical in therapy. For example, it is unethical for a therapist to treat a close friend or relative. It is also unethical for a therapist to have a sexual relationship with a client.

Can a therapist treat multiple family members?

Many therapists and counselors treat more than one member of a family, either concurrently or consecutively. When treating multiple members of a family, the practitioner must be careful to avoid conflicts.

How do I become a therapy therapist for a friend?

The goal is to respect their right of self-determination and to strengthen their sense of self:

1. Just be there.
2. Empathize with the other person’s situation.
3. Use the skill of tentativeness.
4. Tell a story.
5. Expand your friend’s perspective.
6. Validate your friend’s feelings in the situation.

Can family members see the same therapist?

Legally, Therapists Can See Two People Who Know Each Other There is no law that prohibits therapists from seeing two people who know each other, or even two members of the same family. In some small communities, there may not even be a choice.

Can a therapist treat their own family?

While not illegal, counseling one’s own family members is not advised. Consulting with a family member or friend close to the client as this could be viewed as a conflict of interest because one point of view can be taken over the other and can cloud the professionalism of the therapist.

Who should be included in family therapy?

Therapists don’t decide who should be in family therapy. Instead they ask, “Who is most important to you?” Sometimes members of a family live together, but sometimes they live apart. Either way, if they are considered family by the person in treatment, they can be included in family therapy.

Can a therapist share information with family and friends?

If you are unable to make decisions for yourself, either because you are unconscious or deemed not of a sound mind, then your therapist may use their own reasonable judgment to share pertinent information with family or friends involved directly in your care. This usually means immediate family members or partners.

Can a covered entity discuss patient information with a family member?

If the patient is present, or is otherwise available prior to the disclosure, and has the capacity to make health care decisions, the covered entity may discuss this information with the family and these other persons if the patient agrees or, when given the opportunity, does not object.

Can a doctor discuss patient information with family and friends?

Does the HIPAA Privacy Rule permit a doctor to discuss a patient’s health status, treatment, or payment arrangements with the patient’s family and friends? Yes.