The APA code of ethics states that a psychologist is forbidden to have a relationship with a current client and shouldn't have one with a previous client.
Now, if a psychologist is going to have a relationship with a former patient, they recommend that it has been at least 2 years since treatment has terminated. The client/patient also has to be in good mental health and the relationship should not pose a risk to them. Here's the actual code.
10.08 Sexual Intimacies With Former Therapy Clients/Patients
(a) Psychologists do not engage in sexual intimacies with former clients/patients for at least two years after cessation or termination of therapy.
(b) Psychologists do not engage in sexual intimacies with former clients/patients even after a two-year interval except in the most unusual circumstances. Psychologists who engage in such activity after the two years following cessation or termination of therapy and of having no sexual contact with the former client/patient bear the burden of demonstrating that there has been no exploitation, in light of all relevant factors, including (1) the amount of time that has passed since therapy terminated; (2) the nature, duration, and intensity of the therapy; (3) the circumstances of termination; (4) the client's/patient's personal history; (5) the client's/patient's current mental status; (6) the likelihood of adverse impact on the client/patient; and (7) any statements or actions made by the therapist during the course of therapy suggesting or inviting the possibility of a posttermination sexual or romantic relationship with the client/patient.
If its been 3 years and the client is doing pretty good, technically its not condemned, but also not condoned.
2006-07-03 14:06:00
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answer #1
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answered by psychgrad 7
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If a psychologist is willing to have a love relationship with a former client I would question their psychological well being themselves. There is too much power differential between therapist and client and I believe that does not completely fade even after 3 years of termination.
Although by the standards a psychologist can have a relationship with their client after therapy is terminated- I believe it is still unethical.
The relationship will never be completely balanced.
2006-07-03 15:02:51
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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yeah, the person isn't your client anymore so I don't see what the problem is. Hey Jackie, that's bullshit. A Pyschologist just like anyone has a line that distinguishes your career and your personal life. You leave your work at work, and it doesn't get involved in your personal life. No, it's not a breach of ethical conduct unless it involved a current patient or client.
2006-07-03 13:56:46
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answer #3
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answered by GitErDone 2
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This would depend on the College's rules and regulations. Some would prohibit until five years; some longer.
It may also be a difficult situation to deal with, given the two parties knew each other only in a therapeutic relationship -- how that kind of relationship can be carried into a "normal", healthy relationship in itself would be a challenge.
2006-07-03 14:01:09
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answer #4
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answered by Angela B 4
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There could be legal issues depending where he works. I worked in one place where they said we could lose our job for socializing at all with anyone who was or ever had been a client of the agency. That meant half the citizens of the county! Since I'm a consumer and was then staff, I talked to my union rep who said not to worry- as long as they weren't current clients He could save my job - no problem.
2006-07-03 14:21:06
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answer #5
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answered by niteowl 3
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I would say that a competant and ethical psychologist would not, but legally I suppose they could if the client were over 18.
2006-07-03 14:06:41
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answer #6
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answered by First Lady 7
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As long as the patient/client is 18 and a willing participant.
2006-07-03 13:58:44
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answer #7
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answered by Anonymous
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No, the psychologist will do nothing but analize the former patient and it'll get tough and annoying for both.
2006-07-03 13:56:35
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answer #8
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answered by Anonymous
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lol....yeah, sure! but what a weird place to meet and how funny of the development of their relationship? When I say funny I mean interesting and bazaar...who was the first person that asked the other out? And when did they have a crush on each other? How?
Oh...are they straight or homo? who's a phsycologist...anyway, I have one phsycologist that I really admire...Wayne Dyer.. Not bad to have a great husband like him
2006-07-03 14:01:45
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answer #9
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answered by Anonymous
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I don't see why not one way or another the both of them will know every thing about each other
2006-07-03 13:59:49
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answer #10
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answered by alonzo0069 1
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