Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What is a potential consequence of engaging in a dual or multiple relationship with a client?

1. Increased trust between therapist and client

2. Improved treatment outcomes

3. Boundary violations and ethical issues

4. Enhanced professional rapport

The correct answer is: Boundary violations and ethical issues

Engaging in a dual or multiple relationship with a client can lead to boundary violations and ethical issues, making this the most appropriate answer. In the context of counseling and therapy, dual relationships occur when a counselor has more than one role or relationship with a client, which can create significant complications. For example, if a therapist is also a friend, colleague, or business partner of the client, the boundaries that are critical for a therapeutic relationship can become blurred. This blurring can lead to situations where the counselor's objectivity is compromised, making it difficult to provide unbiased support. It can also create conflicts of interest, where the therapist's decisions may be influenced by personal feelings or interests rather than the best interests of the client. Such scenarios can expose both the client and the therapist to ethical dilemmas, potentially harming the therapeutic relationship and undermining trust. In summary, maintaining clear professional boundaries is essential in counseling to ensure ethical behavior and protect the integrity of the therapeutic process, which highlights why the potential consequence of boundary violations and ethical issues is a significant concern in dual or multiple relationships.