Boundaries in Psychotherapy: Ethical and Clinical Explorations

by Ofer Zur

A client wishes to pay for therapy services by bartering his original artwork. A therapist accepts a client's hug but later worries whether doing so may have sent the wrong message. A client asks the therapist to become friends after therapy ends. A prospective client requests therapy from a clinician who is also her neighbor. A client inquires about the therapist's spiritual orientation. What is the best course of action in these situations? Zur's latest book is for the professional who feels unsure when entering those gray areas that inevitably arise in psychotherapy practice. It gives careful consideration to what constitutes a boundary violation, and explores the ethical and clinical complexities involved in boundary issues such as exchange of gifts, non-sexual touch, therapist's self-disclosure, dual relationships, bartering, home visits, home office practice, and telehealth. This book does not offer simple answers, but rather examines the nature of boundaries in psychotherapy and helps readers view boundaries through ethical and clinical lenses. Readers will learn a decision-making process that will help them think through when to cross and when not to cross a boundary.

Genres: Psychology

266 pages, Hardcover

First published February 15, 2007

Reviews

[Yonglin Lai · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great for general information on boundaries. As a patient it helps me understand that I have unconsciously established a lot of boundaries in therapy to prevent myself being hurt without even knowing the word ‘boundaries’. It helps me understand the motivation behind setting those boundaries. It’s very readable for someone who has no prior knowledge in this field, which means it’s probably a bit too basic for professionals in psychotherapy.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well-written, easy to comprehend, just needs to be updated!

[Cindi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book to have on your shelf for reference on ethics issues.

[Rebecca Short, LMFT · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource with thought provoking ideas that demand close thought of what boundaries are and what it means to cross them vs. violating them and the consequences of each.