Therapist Ethics: Potential Conflicts of Interest and Boundaries

Question
Dr Abraham,

I was seeing a counselor to address some personal issues.
My fiance started seeing her as well.
Then, at this therapists suggestion, we started to see her as a couple to address our relationship difficulties -- all the while continuing to see individually.
Needless to say this relationship finally ruptured and I have always wondered if this counselor may have contributed in no small measure.

Wasn't this a breach of ethics on her part?

Thank you for your consideration of this matter.

Respectfully,

Marc Peot

Answer
It is definitely better to have only one counselor that both partners feel good and confident with.

The same counselor would lead the individual as well as the couple's sessions.   

This structural set-up is preferable, but cannot guarantee the relationship's success.



Regards,


Dr. Joseph Abraham


http://www.dr-joseph.com