Psychotherapists’ Communications with Patients’ Relatives and Referring Professionals

Ethical concerns in family therapy.

“…Whether the therapist has avoided or has encouraged a confidential relationship, the issue is, Do family members have the right to question the therapist and receive information about another member? Mariner (1971) advanced the position that prior agreement on the parts of all involved is necessary before communication of information revealed to the therapist is released-and then only to very close family associates. Guidelines for those conducting growth groups suggest that information on such issues as confidentiality should be made available in writing to prospective participants (American Psychological Association, 1973).…”

“…Problems also arise with relatives outside the family therapy group. Mariner (1971) suggested that besides informing the person who phones that his or her information may be used in therapy, the person should be informed that the patient or family must be apprised of the call. Extreme caution in telephone conversations where the caller's identity is not certain is advised.…”