Practical Ethics for the Practicing Mental Health Professional: Nuts, Bolts, and Sticky Issues

This continuing education program focused on providing mental health professionals with a framework for ethical mental health work, whether it was private or group practice, forensic work, or case consultations. The program was for the practice, followed by insurance coverage. Policies for practice and contracts were covered before an initial meeting ensued. Within this hour, preventive measures and strategies for implementing a safe practice were presented in light of emerging issues where state ethics complaints had arisen. The next review of treatment conceptualization and implementation was addressed. Review of the creation of master treatment plans, progress reviews, individual progress notes, and goal accomplishment was highlighted with case examples. Ethical and legal guidelines were reviewed. Case termination and subsequent preparation for the subpoena of documents was covered. Clinical opinions submitted to outside authorities were reviewed. Finally, in the Sticky Issues section of the day, specific case examples were addressed based on prior group requests. Responses to these circumstances included the protection of professional reputation and practice and steps to buffer oneself from the stresses of these situations. Additionally, this program addressed the management of client complaints which may have involved social media ratings, including RICO complaints. Case examples were used illustrating how to use ethical reasoning and decision-making. The purpose of case consultations was highlighted to lend professional mental health support for complex concerns. At the end of the day, proactive self-care measures were provided.

This continuing education program provided mental health professionals with a framework for ethical mental health work. It covered policies, preventive measures, treatment conceptualization and implementation, ethical and legal guidelines, case termination, and management of clients and their records. The program also addressed the protection of professional reputation and practice by use of insurance, consultations, and continuing education of emerging practices. Case examples were used to illustrate ethical reasoning and decision-making. The purpose of case consultations was to lend professional mental health support for complex concerns.

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