Directions: In order to write a paper of 750-1,000 words on professional ethical boundaries and practices, complete the steps below:

Write from the perspective that you are a mental health professional in the field. Provide a thoughtful response to each of the following two sections, including specific, concrete examples to illustrate your ideas. Your final deliverable should be one cohesive paper addressing each section along with an introduction and conclusion. Use the section headings provided below to separate each section of your paper.

Section 1: Boundary Issues and Dual Relationships (500-700 words)

Part A - Decision-Making Model and Examples

How would you determine if a boundary-crossing or dual relationship is ethical and appropriate? What criteria would you consider when making your decision?

Present examples of how you would apply this criteria to at least two professional situations in which you believe the dual relationship issues are complex and ambiguous. One of your examples should address the issues of physical attraction between clients and professionals.

Part B-Ethical Issues and Dimensions in Ethical Decision-Making

Examine these issues in terms of encountering former clients. Address the following:

Do the ethical issues (and your opinion about appropriateness) change, depending on how long after the termination of services a dual relationship is initiated?
What are the key ethical dimensions that might change, after the termination of services?
Present an example of a situation that you believe would constitute a boundary violation with a current client but might be acceptable with a former client.

Section 2: Development of Your Thinking about Ethics (250-300 words)

Clearly describe what you consider the most important developments in your thinking about ethical practice that have occurred so far during this course. This may include areas in which you have clarified your views and beliefs, modified your thinking on a given issue, gained new insights, or acquired a new perspective. It may include issues whose complexity you now appreciate more fully or difficult issues that you now understand you must grapple with, as a counselor. What have you most learned about yourself and/or about what constitutes becoming an ethical practitioner and how has your thinking about ethics and legal issues changed? Be sure to include specific examples to illustrate general statements.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.