Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

When a client reveals a past sexual relationship with a former therapist, what step should the therapist take in addition to providing relevant information?

1. Encourage the client to seek legal advice

2. Process the relationship with the client and encourage them to report

3. File a report with the BBS immediately

4. Provide resources for emotional support

The correct answer is: Process the relationship with the client and encourage them to report

Processing the relationship with the client and encouraging them to report allows the therapist to help the client fully understand the implications of their past relationship with the former therapist. This step is essential because it creates a space for the client to explore their feelings about that relationship, which can be complex and fraught with emotional nuances. During this processing, the therapist can address any feelings of confusion, betrayal, or trauma that the client may experience regarding the prior therapeutic relationship. This is fundamental for the client's healing and allows them to reflect on their experiences in a safe environment. Moreover, encouraging the client to report the former therapist to the appropriate authorities, such as the licensing board, empowers the client to take an active role in addressing any potential ethical violations that occurred. It recognizes the importance of accountability in the therapeutic profession, ensuring that such behaviors are reported and potentially reviewed. This approach not only prioritizes the client's emotional processing but also contributes to the broader goal of maintaining ethical standards within mental health practice. In contrast, while seeking legal advice, filing a report immediately, or merely providing emotional support resources may have their place, they do not engage the client in a meaningful way that promotes understanding and healing regarding their experience with the previous therapist. Processing the relationship fosters a therapeutic