Professional Development

Ethics and Boundaries

Introduction to Part 4: Ethics and Boundaries

As with any therapeutic intervention, the use of technology in clinical practice is not without its ethical and professional difficulties.  Part 4 has been developed to help you understand and address the professional and ethical issues that arise from using technology in your work with young people.

In completing Part 4, please note that the evidence for technology in therapeutic interactions is still emerging and that this part of the module is not exhaustive in its coverage. We have aimed to address common ethical issues and professional challenges, but there will be occasions when issues arise that are not covered.  When this does arise, we encourage you to consult the professional and ethical guidelines of your organisation and professional association for guidance.
How to maintain professional boundaries when using technology;
The ethical issues including privacy, confidentiality, security and use;
How to manage concerns associated with using technology.

In completing Part 4, please note that the evidence for technology in therapeutic interactions is still emerging and that this part of the module is not exhaustive in its coverage. We have aimed to address common ethical issues and professional challenges, but there will be occasions when issues arise that are not covered.  When this does arise, we encourage you to consult the professional and ethical guidelines of your organisation and professional association for guidance.

Learning objectives:

  • How to maintain professional boundaries when using technology;
  • The ethical issues including privacy, confidentiality, security and use;
  • How to manage concerns associated with using technology.

 

Note from key author, Psychologist Liesje Donkin:

"I feel that this is a particularly important part of the training module as it begins to develop guidelines on keeping both yourself and your clients safe.  Whilst ethical guidelines can often help to guide decision making in "grey areas" in traditional consultations, the emerging nature of digital therapies and interventions means that often these guidelines do not exist.  I've searched many sites and resources for guidelines and have combined these with clinical experience to form this part.  I envision this as work in progress that everyone can contribute to. Given this, any feedback or suggestions are welcome."

 

Click here to go to the Tutorial for Part 4: Ethics and Boundaries