Professional Intimacy and Boundaries of Therapeutic Relationships
When a patient discloses their personal information to a MRT or other members of the health care team this is an example of professional intimacy. As an MRT, professional intimacy is an inherent element of the therapeutic relationship. Professional boundaries are essential in identifying parameters of the therapeutic relationship. Maintaining professional boundaries is an expectation regardless of a patient’s actions or requests. Remember, an MRT is accountable for setting the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship.
At times, the temptation to cross professional boundaries may arise, these could include revealing personal information about yourself, calling a patient at home with the intention of establishing a personal relationship, or failure to disclose your professional status.
Boundary violations occur when the patient’s/clients’ needs are no longer the focus. Think of this as the reversal of roles.
The following list is examples of unacceptable behaviours in a therapeutic relationship:
Examples of Boundary Crossing Actions
Review this list and consider the impact these actions have on the therapeutic relationship:
- Oversharing your personal information as an MRT with clients and families.
- Volunteering to complete tasks outside of your role, such as running a personal errand for a client.
- Seeking support from a client or patient as a reversal of role.
- Involving yourself in a client’s personal affairs, such as buying and selling items with clients.
Watch or Listen to the Following Media Clip
Media Professional Boundaries Scene. [Video]. CC-BY-NC-SA 2021. Conestoga College.
close familiarity
existing as something of an essential characteristic
a limit of activity
