Ethics of Self Disclosure
Presented by
Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSWDuring this workshop, we will have our eye on ethics as we explore considerations for clinician self-disclosure to clients. Self-disclosure has several dimensions, including clinical, therapeutic, technical, and, in some cases, legal or regulatory. We will examine the nature of self-disclosure, including potential benefits and risks.
Overview
Recorded: Spring 2025 3 Law and Ethics CEs
What were you taught about self-disclosure to clients in grad school? Are you wondering whether or not to disclose "something" to your clients? Self-disclosure in therapy is complex and dynamic. During this workshop, we will have our eye on ethics as we explore considerations for clinician self-disclosure to clients. Self-disclosure has several dimensions, including clinical, therapeutic, technical, and, in some cases, legal or regulatory. We will examine the nature of self-disclosure, including potential benefits and risks. Attention will specifically be given to ethical considerations, namely relevant ethical principles, and a typology of self-disclosure using case vignettes. Finally, key recommendations will be given for clinicians to consider in their course of self-disclosure opportunities. Clinicians will be encouraged to "know thyself" and their ethical responsibilities to best utilize the avenue of appropriate self-disclosure.
Learning Objectives:
- Comprehend and describe key aspects of therapeutic self-disclosure, including potential benefits and risks.
- Examine and articulate key ethical considerations of self-disclosure, including advantages and disadvantages.
- Apply best practices for ethical and therapeutic self-disclosure by considering a variety of clinician and client factors.
About the Presenter
Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She has held clinical positions as an outpatient and in-home therapist and clinical supervisor. Diane was an Adjunct Professor of Social Work for 10 years at The University of Kansas, School of Social Welfare and a Field Liaison and Field Instructor. She has also held administrative positions as a program Director and Coordinator. Diane is a frequent local and national trainer on a wide variety of mental health and workplace development topics with clinicians and corporations. Diane is most passionate about providing quality professional development to clinicians, employees, and leaders. For fun, Diane loves to spoil her four Dachshunds and rock out to 80’s music.