Managing Boundaries

Managing Boundaries

Managing boundaries can become complicated at times if you are not in tune with yourself, the client and the codes of ethics for the company. I chose the first situation where the ct wanted to have a more intimate setting because I deal with minorities on a daily basis and this client stated that it was a cultural situation that made her want to have the meeting in a more open surrounding verses being closed up in an office with a man. The client stated that she did not feel comfortable being closed up in the office with a man; however who is to say that this client is telling the truth? The client could be using that avenue to become more intimate with the counselor where no other counselors are around or she could just feel more comfortable being out in the open.

Now on the counselor's side, I can understand how he feels because boundaries could be crossed if he is not in tune with himself, the client, and the codes of ethics. As mentioned in the managing boundaries video, the counselor should express what he is feeling and thinking when the issue was brought up. The client should express his concerns and why his concerns are valid and what rules may be broken. Lets say the counselor goes to have the session in the park without mentioning how he felt about the situation and the ct really only wanted to get out of the office, his work performance would and could become hindered because he is thinking that she wants to become intimate which leaves the counselor unable to work effectively and professionally. However if the client does want to go to the park for a more intimate relationship and the counselor goes without expressing his thoughts he could and would be crossing boundaries eventually because the client would be looking at their relationship as more of a friend to friend relationship and the professionalism would no longer be taken seriously. Furthermore, if the counselor was in tuned with the client he would know that the client feels uncomfortable culturally and would be able to make the right decision.

According to University Of Idaho managing Boundaries in Multiple Relationships (2012), although dual relationships are not always harmful to clients, it is essential for professionals to recognize the potential of harm associated with any kind of blending of roles. Most professional organization codes of ethics address the issue of dual relationships. Counselors