Post-Termination Non-Sexual Dual Relationships: Dynamics and Assessment

Abstract

According to the available research literature, mental health professionals have a difference of opinion regarding the ethical nature of post-termination non-sexual dual relationships. Despite evidence that these relationships are harmful to the client, both counselor perception and ethical codes are vague about the ethics surrounding this issue. This article reviews current literature on the characteristics, dynamics, and attitudes toward post-termination non-sexual dual relationships and applies an ethical decision making model to a case study to help practitioners assess these relationships.