Warning: Boundary Crossing Ahead

Studies  indicate one of the most complex and challenging tasks for mental  health professionals is effective boundary management.    Despite ethics  education, agency rules, and licensing regulations, boundary  mismanagement remains commonplace for both the novice and seasoned  practitioner.    The potential for boundary crossings and dual  relationships exists in a variety of different settings, in all areas of  mental health practice and in every type of relationship.   Through  rich and culturally-diverse case scenarios, participants will discuss  and explore the ethical standard of Conflicts of Interest with an  emphasis on clinician self-disclosure, living and working in smaller  communities, professional involvement with members of the same family  and navigating the use of e-mail, text and social media.    Practical  and effective methods for identifying, approaching, avoiding and  resolving boundary-related ethical dilemmas will be highlighted.