Law and Ethics Practice Exam

When a therapist accidentally sends a personal message to a client, what is the most appropriate ethical response?

1. Acknowledge mistake and discuss the boundary violation

2. Explore the impact of texting on the therapeutic relationship

3. Stop using text messaging in clinical practice

4. Send a follow-up text apologizing for the mixup

The correct answer is: Acknowledge mistake and discuss the boundary violation

The most appropriate ethical response in this situation is to acknowledge the mistake and discuss the boundary violation. This approach promotes transparency and integrity within the therapeutic relationship. Recognizing the error allows the therapist to take responsibility, which is crucial for maintaining trust and rapport with the client. Discussing the boundary violation provides an opportunity to explore the implications of the mistake and reinforces the ethical standards that govern therapeutic boundaries. This action not only addresses the immediate issue but also educates the client about the importance of maintaining professional boundaries in the therapeutic context. While exploring the impact of texting on the therapeutic relationship could provide valuable insights, it does not directly address the breach that occurred and may not prioritize the client's feelings about the incident. Stopping the use of text messaging altogether could be an overreaction and might not address the specific situation at hand. Sending a follow-up text apologizing for the mixup is somewhat better than ignoring the mistake, but it lacks the depth of engagement and reflection that discussing the violation brings, potentially missing an opportunity for deeper understanding and growth in the therapeutic relationship.