Ethical Practices & Professional Boundaries Flashcards

During an RTT session, a client unexpectedly discloses active suicidal ideation with a plan. What is the practitioner's primary ethical and legal obligation?

Answer: Immediately terminate the session and contact emergency services or a crisis line

Active suicidal ideation with a plan constitutes a duty-to-protect situation requiring immediate crisis intervention, overriding confidentiality.

What is the ethical significance of obtaining a client's written informed consent before beginning RTT sessions?

Answer: It ensures clients understand the nature, risks, benefits, and alternatives of RTT before agreeing to participate

Informed consent is a cornerstone of ethical practice that respects client autonomy by ensuring they can make educated decisions about their treatment.

An RTT practitioner begins to feel strong personal attraction to a client. What is the most ethical course of action?

Answer: Seek supervision immediately and consider transferring the client if objectivity is compromised

Countertransference feelings must be addressed through supervision to protect the client's welfare and the integrity of the therapeutic relationship.

Which scenario best represents a 'dual relationship' that RTT practitioners must navigate carefully?

Answer: Offering RTT sessions to a close personal friend

A dual relationship occurs when the practitioner holds two different roles with the same person, such as both friend and therapist, which can compromise therapeutic objectivity.

How should an RTT practitioner handle notes and client records to maintain ethical standards?

Answer: Maintain secure, confidential records for a period defined by local regulations and professional standards

Ethical practice requires secure record storage for a legally and professionally mandated retention period to protect client privacy and ensure continuity of care.

What is the ethical principle underlying the RTT practitioner's obligation NOT to guarantee specific outcomes to clients?

Answer: Honest representation respects client autonomy and avoids creating false expectations

Making outcome guarantees violates honesty and non-maleficence principles by creating unrealistic expectations that could harm clients if results differ.

When should an RTT practitioner consider terminating the professional relationship with a client?

Answer: When the client has achieved their stated goals, progress has plateaued, or continuing would not be in the client's best interest

Ethical termination is guided by the client's best interest, including goal achievement, lack of progress, or when referral to another specialist is more appropriate.