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A behavioral health provider understands that he or she is there to help, in other words, it is a professional and not a social relationship. You are purchasing expertise and treatment and have a right to quality care in return.
In general, you will not receive services until you consent to treatment (exceptions to this rule may occur if an individual is suicidal, homicidal or gravely disabled). You have a right to develop a treatment plan in cooperation with your therapist and to see that treatment plan. You should be informed of any alternative treatment options. Your therapist may not release any information about you without your express written consent.
You can expect your therapist to be reasonably on time, courteous and open to any questions you may have. He or she should feel like an ally in your efforts to solve a problem. A therapeutic relationship can be an intense relationship, but it is never a sexual relationship. Sexual overtures from a therapist are never ethical under any circumstances. |