Dual Relationship Paper

Dual relationships in counseling refer to any relationship between the counselor and client. These relationships can be sexual or non-sexual and are not exclusive to the client. Dual relationships include; students, family members, supervisees and friends of the client. These relationships are not always obvious at the beginning. Simply beginning to enter into these relationships or even considering a dual relationship can change the nature of the counselor-client relationship.
The American Counseling Association has made it clear that concurrent sexual and professional relationships are unethical (Association, 2014). All major professional associations agree sexual relationships that occur less than two years after the professional relationship

The balance of power between the counselor/client relationships makes the relationship highly unethical. It is the counselor duty to make sure the relationship remains ethical and professional while doing no harm to the client. This is true regardless of whether or not the client has consented to sexual conduct. Consent is not a defense for malpractice.
Dual Relationship Policies All counselors must avoid dual relationships that may impair their objectivity and increase the chance of harm to the client. If the dual relationship cannot be avoided the counselor is responsible for taking the appropriate actions to reduce the chance of harm to the client. It is crucial the counselor put safeguards in place such as, consent, consultation, supervision and documentation (Hoffman, 1995). At no time should a counselor engage in sexual conduct with a client or family member of a client during counseling. It is acceptable for counselors and former clients to engage in social relationships. It is never recommended to engage in a sexual relationship with a former client. If this situation is unavoidable the counselor must follow the current guidelines set forth by the American Psychological