If a client discloses a past sexual relationship with a former therapist, what should the current therapist do?

• A. Encourage the client to speak to the former therapist
• B. Dismiss the disclosure as irrelevant
• C. Provide the client with a brochure, Professional Therapy Never Includes Sex, and discuss it
• D. Advise the client to avoid future therapy

Answer: (C)

When a client discloses a past sexual relationship with a former therapist, it's crucial for the current therapist to approach the situation with sensitivity and care. Providing the client with resources such as the brochure, "Professional Therapy Never Includes Sex," and discussing it serves multiple purposes.

First, this response acknowledges the seriousness of the disclosure. It recognizes that the client may have experienced a confusing or potentially harmful situation during their previous therapeutic relationship. By offering educational resources, the current therapist can validate the client's experience while also informing them about professional boundaries and ethics in therapy.

Additionally, discussing concepts related to ethical conduct in therapy helps reinforce the importance of a safe therapeutic environment. This not only aids in the healing process but can also empower the client to understand the dynamics of healthy therapist-client relationships. It encourages thoughtful reflection on their past experiences without dismissing or trivializing their concerns.

In contrast, encouraging the client to speak to the former therapist might inadvertently place the client in a vulnerable position or re-traumatize them by reopening wounds. Dismissing the disclosure as irrelevant neglects the significance of the client's experiences and does not foster a trusting therapeutic alliance. Advising the client to avoid future therapy altogether could hinder their progress and prevent them from seeking the help they need to navigate