Massage Therapist Ethics, Boundaries, and Laws 2

Question 1

A client begins sharing very personal emotional problems during a session and asks for your advice. What is the most ethical response?

Accepted Answer

Listen empathetically but refer the client to a mental health professional

Answer

Massage therapists should listen compassionately but recognize scope of practice limits and refer clients to appropriate mental health professionals.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes a 'dual relationship' in massage therapy ethics?

Accepted Answer

When a therapist has both a professional and personal relationship with a client

Answer

A dual relationship occurs when a therapist holds both a professional therapeutic role and another type of relationship (friend, romantic partner, employer) with the same person.

Question 3

A massage therapist notices signs of abuse on a minor client. Under mandatory reporting laws, the therapist must:

Accepted Answer

Report the suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities

Answer

All US states require mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse by healthcare providers including massage therapists, regardless of certainty.

Question 4

Which action by a massage therapist would constitute a HIPAA violation?

Accepted Answer

Mentioning a client's name and condition to a mutual acquaintance

Answer

Disclosing a client's protected health information to unauthorized parties without consent violates HIPAA privacy regulations.

Question 5

A former client invites you to their wedding six months after their last session. What is the most ethically sound approach?

Accepted Answer

Consult your professional code of ethics before deciding

Answer

Consulting your professional code of ethics helps navigate the complexity of post-therapeutic relationships, as feelings and transference can persist beyond the formal client relationship.

Massage Therapist Practice Test

Massage Therapist Practice Test

Massage Therapist Ethics, Boundaries, and Laws 2