Practice management
Checklist for Ethical Considerations in a Dual Relationship
This checklist guides a practitioner through the key ethical questions to consider before entering.
The lines between our professional and personal lives can occasionally blur. A client might extend a social invitation, or you may discover a pre-existing connection in your community. These situations are not always clear-cut, and moving forward without a structured thought process can introduce risk for both the client and your practice.
This checklist guides you through a formal review of the relevant ethical factors, moving the decision from a gut feeling to a reasoned conclusion. It helps you clarify the potential impacts on the therapeutic alliance and document your rationale. This structured approach ensures your final decision protects the client, preserves the integrity of your professional role, and meets your duty of care.
Checklist for Ethical Considerations in a Dual Relationship
Complete this checklist before agreeing to or initiating a relationship that extends beyond the primary professional context. Use your notes to document your reasoning for supervision, consultation, or personal records.
| Ethical Consideration | Response (Yes/No/Uncertain) | Documentation/Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Is there a significant power differential between your professional role and the proposed secondary role? | ||
| Could your professional objectivity or judgment be impaired by the secondary relationship? | ||
| Is there a risk that the other person could be harmed or exploited in this arrangement? | ||
| Have you discussed the potential complications and shifting expectations with the other person? | ||
| Has the conversation about potential complications been documented? | ||
| Are the expectations for confidentiality clear and distinct for each role? | ||
| Could ending one relationship negatively affect the other? | ||
| If you were to end the professional relationship, would the secondary relationship be forced to continue? | ||
| If you were to end the secondary relationship, could you maintain professional objectivity? | ||
| Have you consulted with a supervisor or a trusted, objective colleague about this situation? | ||
| Does this relationship violate any professional codes of conduct, licensing board rules, or agency policies? | ||
| Does the potential benefit to the other person clearly outweigh the potential risks? |
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