Ethical Dilemma in Psychotherapy

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Ethical Dilemma in Psychotherapy Introduction: In the practice of psychology, psychologists are often challenged with unique dilemmas and issues for which they may not be ready for. Confidentiality in the realm of therapy is of vital importance. It is one of the aspects that facilitate a psychologically secure atmosphere within which a person can share intricate parts of their lives and themselves. Without a guarantee of confidentiality, the majority of patients would be hesitant in sharing of themselves and would most likely benefit much from therapy. This paper will examine an ethical dilemma that a psychotherapist/psychologist faces, how he dealt with the dilemma, and his reasoning behind how he dealt with the dilemma. The Dilemma: A psychologist is treating a minor child for depression and minor cutting. This minor child's parents are divorced and the father, who has custody of the minor child, has given his consent to the psychologist to treat the minor child. The mother, who is the non-custodial parent of the child, has called the psychologist and has requested that she (the mother) be involved in and participates in the therapy of the child. The father has told the psychologist that he does not want the mother to participate or be involved in this matter on the grounds that the mother has a drinking problem, and that is the reason he divorced her. The Decision: Based on the father's wishes and the complexity of the relationship between the father and the mother, and the father is adamant he does not want the mother involved for whatever reason, then the psychologist will respect his decision. The psychologist has a responsibility to his client and to himself. The psychologist can inform the mother of his decision and direct her to speak with the father and explain her reasoning and maybe the father will change his mind at a later date.

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