Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What should a therapist do if they feel uncomfortable with a client’s behavior, such as hugging?

1. Seek consultation to address the discomfort

2. Set clear boundaries regarding physical touch with the client

3. Provide the client with literature on professional boundaries

4. Accept the hugs as a part of the therapeutic relationship

The correct answer is: Set clear boundaries regarding physical touch with the client

Setting clear boundaries regarding physical touch with the client is essential for maintaining professionalism in the therapeutic relationship. Establishing boundaries helps ensure that both the therapist and the client understand the limits of appropriate behavior, which is crucial for fostering a safe and effective therapeutic environment. When a therapist feels uncomfortable with a client's behavior, such as hugging, it is their responsibility to communicate what is acceptable within the context of therapy. This not only protects the therapist's comfort but also aids in the client's understanding of the therapeutic process and the importance of maintaining professional boundaries. While the other options may contribute to addressing the situation, they do not directly confront the immediate discomfort or establish necessary limitations. Seeking consultation can provide support, but it does not directly resolve the interaction with the client. Providing literature on professional boundaries could be useful for the client but might not be an effective immediate response to the uncomfortable situation. Accepting the hugs undermines the importance of maintaining that professional boundary, which could lead to further discomfort and complications in the therapeutic relationship.