Boundary issues, multiple relationships, and prohibitions on sexual misconduct
Boundaries, multiple relationships, and sexual misconduct
This domain tests the line between helpful flexibility and exploitation. Maryland law and the APA Ethics Code prohibit sexual relationships and restrict other multiple relationships that could impair objectivity or harm the client.
Core rules
- Sexual intimacies with current clients are prohibited. Board rules also prohibit sexual relationships with former clients for at least two years after termination and may treat longer intervals as misconduct if the relationship is exploitative.
- Nonsexual multiple relationships are not automatically unethical, but they are prohibited when they could impair judgment or exploit the client. Examples include treating a business partner, employee, or close friend.
- Boundary crossings (self-disclosure, gifts, bartering) require analysis. Boundary violations are harmful and often secretive.
- Prevent problems with clear contracts, consultation, documentation, and transfer when objectivity is compromised.
Worked example
A psychologist hires a current client to do landscaping. The dual roles create power and financial entanglement. Even if the client offers, the psychologist should decline, document the discussion, and refer the client elsewhere if the relationship cannot be managed.
Traps
Do not assume a relationship is acceptable because it is nonsexual. Do not treat the two-year post-termination rule as permission at exactly two years; the Board can still find exploitation. Do not use self-disclosure to meet the psychologist's needs.