ABSTRACT
Couple and family therapists arguably face more ethical issues in practice than individual therapists, given the multiple variables involved in relational clinical work (Shaw, 2015). There are more relationships to manage, not only in the direct therapeutic contract, but also related to the systems of which each participant in therapy is a part: school, work, church, community. Family therapists are more likely to leave the confines of the therapy room and foray into the life of the client than in individual therapy-we (couple and family therapists) might attend school, workplace, or community venues as part of planned intervention. We might
move more fluidly between therapist, advocate, and community partner than is encouraged in individual therapeutic practice. Although couple and family therapists observe relational dynamics, an individually oriented therapist may have only the unilateral perspective from one client. Clients can see their family therapist as akin to their family doctor. That is, all members can attend for individual or relationship concerns, and it is with confidence that the family feels the therapist is holding their individual and group needs in mind: “all for one and one for all”. In this way, Sally and Tom’s use of Peter’s family therapy service is not uncommon, especially in smaller communities. Some therapists may have seen multiple generations of one family, or members with different partners across time. This is a pleasure and a privilege for family therapists.
