Running head: ETHICAL VIGNETTE PAPER 1
Ethical Vignette Paper 2
Terrance V. Morales
Liberty University
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Abstract
Working in the mental health profession, displaying appropriate boundaries is a very
important issue with the therapeutic treatment process. Boundaries is a term often used to
describe the limits of a fiduciary relationship in which one person entrusts his or her welfare with
another. Boundaries is a crucial aspect of any effective client-counselor relationship. Boundaries
set the guidelines for the relationship and provide a consistent structure for the counseling
process. Some boundary lines are very precise and clear, while others take detailed explanation
and clarification to be deemed appropriate. In this profession, it is very significant to gain a good
rapport, but also to set the correct rules and limits to keep the relationship professional. It is very
pertinent to identify reasonable, safe, and permissible behaviors that should be conducted during
the counseling procedure. In the mental health profession, the practice of appropriate boundaries,
is a part of the code of ethics that should be practiced by all boards governing professionals.
Keywords: boundaries, appropriate boundaries, professional counselor, code of ethics,
professional ethics, ethics, standards, guidelines, state law
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Ethical Vignette Paper 2
The speaker in the video is Dr. Hemphill. Dr. Hemphill is an expertise in trauma informed care,
co-occurring disorders, and healthy boundaries. The line of businesses he specializes in enables
clinicians to recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients and families. The video was
designed to provide insight on appropriate boundaries during the counseling process. This
presenter discussed the appropriate behaviors that should be displayed by both professional and
client during counseling treatment. Problems that professionals have with accepting boundaries
was the first topic of discussion. This video provided detailed facts to why some professionals
have problems accepting criticism on how they do their job. Hemphill stated that the
professionals’ use to being in control, manipulations of rules, over protection of the patient, fear
of rage and disapproval are some of issues professionals have difficulty handling. This video also
provided factors that impact boundaries. There were also issues identified that patients have a
hard time dealing when it comes to boundaries during counseling. One issue mentioned is how
clients tend to look at therapist in a parental role. Some instances, clients expect the therapist to
do everything for them. In contrary, it’s the therapist role to assist, but set regulations that
encourage self-dependency. Another key point discussed was the digital age. The digital age
deals with the use of technology in relation with therapeutic relations. Of course, it’s the client’s
preference because the counseling sessions are convenient. However, it places the counselor in
very inconvenient situations. One possible issue addressed is if the client reaches out via text
while the therapist is engaging in personal business. It creates a slippery slope that could create
disturbances reducing the quality of the treatment provided. All in all, there must be boundaries
set by the therapist that are exercised equally and consistently to all clients.
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Summary of State Board Rules and Regulations
In the state of Virginia, boundaries are mentioned in the regulations governing
professional counseling. “Supervision by any individual whose relationship to the resident
compromises the objectivity of the supervisor is prohibited” (Virginia Code of Law), is a
statement made that states that supervisor should not counsel any individual that they have an
alternative or previous personal relationship with. There aren’t exact rules set in place, but this is
another subject that the therapist of counselor will have to use professional judgement in
implementing regulations to enhance therapeutic treatment. With that being said, the client and
therapist must set boundary limitations and follow the rules in order to enhance the quality of the
overall treatment.
Summary of ACA Code of Ethics
The American Counseling Association Code of Ethics is a very detailed guideline of rules,
regulations, and policies to ensure counselors and clients of their rights and jurisdictions. The
American Counseling Association emphasizes the specifics about boundaries. The American
Counseling Association explains various regulations that prohibits inappropriate behaviors and
boundaries. The American Counseling Association states that, “Counselors are prohibited from
engaging in counseling relationships with persons with whom they have had a previous sexual
and/or romantic relationship” (American Counseling Association, 2014). The ACA also states
that counselors are to refrain from, “counseling relationships with friends or family members
whom they have an inability to remain objective” (American Counseling Association, 2014).
There is a complete section in the American Counseling Association entitled Managing and
Maintaining Boundaries and Professional Relationships that explains that counselors should
avoid counseling any person they have had a previous personal relationship with. Maintaining
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appropriate boundaries is a skill and essential in sustaining healthy relationships in the mental
health profession.
Response to video
I enjoyed watching this video. There were some very informative tips that could improve the
knowledge of people working in the behavior healthcare profession. This video provided very
adequate information on boundaries and the importance of setting proper limitations when
dealing with patients or clients. The information provided is very beneficial to anyone working in
this profession. All in all, this video can be very beneficial in guiding one’s judgment in setting
limitations and procedures while working in this profession in the future.
Plan of Action
After reviewing the video and state board rules and regulations, I plan to follow the laws and
guidelines in place that would overall enhance the quality of my services. I have a clearer
understanding of what’s accepted, as opposed to what’s intolerable. Also, I understand that in
certain situations I will have to make decisions solely from professional judgement. All in all,
keeping everyone safe is the most important goal when dealing with a patient. There are
guidelines that must be followed in each state, but some instances require the morals and
decisions of the therapist or counselor. Therefore, I will continue to professional, set and
maintain appropriate boundaries, and remain consistent with all clients in the future.
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Reference
American Counseling Association (2014). ACA Code of Ethics. Retrieved from
