Professional Roles and Boundaries in the Clinical Setting

Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Location: Virtual

Instructor: Dr. Eric L Ström, Ph.D., JD, LMHC

CE credits: 3 (pending)

Course Description:

Boundary violations are among the most common reasons for professional discipline of behavioral health clinicians. Dual relationships—both intentional and unintentional—can arise in many forms and often present ethical, clinical, and legal challenges. In recognition of this significant cause of misconduct, as of October 2025 the Washington Department of Health has implemented a requirement for two hours of continuing education in “Professional Roles and Boundaries” every two years.

In this three-hour workshop, we will examine Washington State laws and professional ethical standards regarding personal and dual relationships with clients. Drawing from recent Washington Department of Health disciplinary decisions, participants will engage with real-world case studies that illustrate common risk areas. The workshop will also offer practical strategies for establishing and maintaining appropriate clinical boundaries in everyday practice.

This course is designed to meet the Washington State Department of Health’s requirement for continuing education in Professional Roles and Boundaries.

 Objectives:

At the end of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Apply Washington legal guidelines regarding dual relationships;
2. Evaluate ethical standards concerning dual relationships with clients;
3. Recognize risk factors that may contribute to boundary crossings or violations; and
4. Create and evaluate strategies to maintain appropriate and ethical clinical relationships to best support veteran clients.

References:

Marais, D.L. "It’s Very Difficult to Set the Boundaries, It’s Human Nature to Want to Respond: Exploring Health Professions Educators’ Responses to Student Mental Health Difficulties through a Positioning Theory Lens." Adv in Health Sci Educ 29, 67–88 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10459-023-10254-7

Brannon, G. E., & Ricks, D. (2026). “Taking off the Therapist Hat: Boundary Setting as Self-Advocacy for Mental Health Providers". Southern Communication Journal, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1080/1041794X.2025.2611803

Palomin, A., Takishima-Lacasa, J., Selby-Nelson, E. et al. "Challenges and Ethical Implications in Rural Community Mental Health: The Role of Mental Health Providers". Community Ment Health J 59, 1442–1451 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-023-01151-9