WMHCA: Professional Roles & Boundaries in the Clinical Setting

2 Law and Ethics-Professional Roles and Boundaries CEs Recorded: January, 2026

Boundary violations are among the most common reasons for professional discipline of behavioral health clinicians. Dual relationships—both intentional and unintentional—can arise in many forms and often present ethical, clinical, and legal challenges.  In recognition of this significant cause of misconduct, as of October 2025 the Washington Department of Health has implemented a new requirement for two hours of continuing education in “Professional Roles and Boundaries” every two years.   In this two-hour workshop, we will examine Washington State laws and professional ethical standards regarding personal and dual relationships with clients. Drawing from recent Washington Department of Health disciplinary decisions, participants will engage with real- world case studies that illustrate common risk areas. The workshop will also offer practical strategies for establishing and maintaining appropriate clinical boundaries in everyday practice.  This course is designed to meet the Washington State Department of Health’s requirement for continuing education in Professional Roles and Boundaries.

 Learning Objectives:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

∙ Apply Washington legal guidelines regarding dual relationships; ∙ Apply ethical standards concerning dual relationships with clients; ∙ Recognize risk factors that may contribute to boundary crossings or violations; and ∙ Create and evaluate strategies to maintain appropriate and ethical clinical relationships.