Presenter

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Study Center Annex and Learning Lab

The new NYS law mandating 3 hours of training on professional boundaries for LMSWs/ LCSWs, psychologists, psychoanalysts and licensed mental health counselors might be viewed as an “eat your peas” moment, but it is in fact an opportunity to delve into an issue that is intrinsic to creating “good-enough” therapeutic relationships. This three-hour workshop will take a critical look at real-life scenarios culled from clinical practice, supervision and from famous case histories. The workshop will help participants draw a bright line around potential boundary infractions, while giving them strategies to think through the many gray areas that arise in day-to-day practice. Among the topics covered will be mandated reporting, physical touch, gifts, fee issues, self-disclosure, contact outside of sessions, dual relationships, advice, confidentiality, working within one’s area of expertise, seeking consultation and managing online relationships and social media. The workshop will balance didactic learning and a small group process where rigorous clinical thinking on boundaries will be demonstrated and practiced. Having clarity on these and other issues is essential in creating the Winnicottian “playspace” that we all strive for.