Practical Ethics for Mental Health Professionals: When to Worry and How to Know.

This continuing education program focused on providing mental health professionals with a framework for ethical mental health work across private practice, forensic settings, and case consultations. The program covered general conceptualizations of mental health practice, risk management based on setting, and standard operating procedures for effective practice management. Preventive measures and strategies for implementing a safe practice were presented in response to emerging ethical concerns. Treatment conceptualization and implementation were addressed through reviews of master treatment plans, progress notes, goal setting, and case examples. The session also covered responses to subpoenas, case termination, record maintenance, and submission of clinical opinions to outside authorities. Strategies for managing client complaints, including those related to social media and RICO, were discussed alongside tools for buffering the stress of external inquiries and potential peer review. Case examples illustrated ethical reasoning and decision-making, and the importance of case consultations was highlighted as a means of professional support for complex issues. The program concluded with a discussion on proactive self-care for practitioners.

This continuing education program provided mental health professionals with a comprehensive framework for ethical practice, covering policies, risk management, treatment planning, recordkeeping, and legal responsibilities. It also addressed ways to protect professional reputation and well-being through consultations, continued education, and practical strategies, using case examples to illustrate ethical decision-making in real-world scenarios.

To learn more about Dr. Reneau Kennedy and her work, visit the link below.