Interesting article. I found this therapist's attitude very similar to Kenneth Pope or Glen Gabbard (they're kind of the go to guys about boundaries), especially in distinguishing between a boundary violation (in which the purpose is to fulfill the therapist's needs) and a boundary crossing (which is done to meet the patients' needs). I really do think that for most skilled therapist, boundaries are something that are consistently being negotiated. That what is really important, as he said in this article, is that they are conscious of the boundaries at all time and what effect an unusual behavior would have on a patient, as well as being willing to discuss all of a client's feelings.

My T has what I would consider very clear boundaries, especially around my not being allowed to take care of him. OTOH, he's has no problem with me knowing about his personal life if I ask. He's told he is married and has two sons, he will talk (very briefly) about his grandchildren if I ask, he's always been open about his vacation destinations (very important for me, because knowing where he was helped me deal with his absence a lot better).

But one thing I am very sure of is that he is always very conscious of what he will and will not discuss with me (trust me I've slammed into a few walls here and there).

What really stood out for me though was that his attitude was that dual relationships occurring were pretty much inevitable, but he also wasn't suggesting they should be pursued by the therapist. It was more along the lines of being prepared and thoughtful about them when they crop up. Interesting read, thanks.

AG

I haven't taken the time to read the article, but I will soon.

Thank you for posting this, Kansas!

I have stumbled upon another website about dual relationships and boundaries...
http://www.zurinstitute.com/outofoffice.html

I have researched this recently as I've gotten the feeling that my T doesn't have strict boundaries with me. She's pretty open about her life. At our last session I asked if we were terminating due to my insurance and my last assignment. T said that the assignment she gave me was to help with my self esteem to see how far I've come and not to officially end. T also said that she sees herself as more of my mentor now. She has worked with me through my crisis and is guiding me on my career path to possibly become a T. I told her that I felt the same way ....that I see her as a mentor. We both agreed that we were on the same page. She told me I could call her if I needed help with my homework. I didn't ask for clarification on that, so I don't know exactly what she meant. Does that mean I can call her to schedule a session to go over my homework? Or I can call her and we can work on it over the phone? I don't want to be a pesky client and call her at 10:30PM begging for help because I'm stuck on problem 18 or something.
I've never called T in between sessions and I work hard to keep things professional.
I truly wish though that I could just have time with her to discuss psychological theories or we could watch one of the films together that she shows to her classes.
ok....I'm rambling....speaking of classes....I better get back to my homework, which is oddly enough a discussion about multiple relationships!

Thanks for posting the link!