Boundaries and the use and misuse of power and authority: Ethical complexities for clergy psychotherapists

Acknowledging their power and authority and establishing and maintaining clear and safe professional boundaries tend to be complex issues for clergy psychotherapists. The legacy of dual training, insufficient attention to professional ethics, as well as differing role expectations and professional socializations as clergy and counselor make it imperative for clergy psychotherapists to be particularly thoughtful about boundary issues in counseling. This article discusses the vulnerabilities and complexities clergy psychotherapists encounter, particularly matters of multiple relationships, confidentiality, and practice policies. It also proposes preventive actions to raise awareness and safeguard ethical conduct.