When a therapist feels attracted to a client, what should the therapist do first to manage their ethical obligations?

When a therapist experiences attraction to a client, the first step that should be taken is to seek consultation to manage the attraction and monitor therapeutic boundaries. Consulting with a supervisor, colleague, or ethics board allows the therapist to reflect on their feelings in a professional setting and gain insights on how to handle the situation ethically. This is crucial because it helps the therapist to maintain professionalism, uphold ethical standards in therapy, and prioritize the client's well-being. Seeking consultation can provide strategies to navigate personal feelings while ensuring that therapeutic interventions remain focused on the client's needs without compromising the therapeutic relationship.

This approach not only helps the therapist gain perspective but also reinforces the importance of setting boundaries, which is essential in maintaining effective and ethical therapy practices. This process ensures that the attraction does not interfere with the client's treatment and that any decisions made are well-informed and ethically sound.