Pennsylvania Code
Title 49 - PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL STANDARDS
Part I - DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Subpart A - PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL AFFAIRS
Chapter 48 - STATE BOARD OF SOCIAL WORKERS, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS AND PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS-LICENSURE OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS
SEXUAL MISCONDUCT
Section 48.23 - Sexual intimacies with a former client/patient or an immediate family member of a former client/patient

Universal Citation: 49 PA Code § 48.23

Current through Register Vol. 54, No. 44, November 2, 2024

(a) Sexual intimacies between a licensed marriage and family therapist and a former client/patient, or an immediate family member of a former client/patient are prohibited for 7 years following the termination of the professional relationship.

(b) Following the passage of the 7-year period, licensed marriage and family therapists may engage in sexual conduct with a former client/patient, or an immediate family member of a former client/patient which is not exploitive. In determining whether the conduct is exploitive, the licensed marriage and family therapist shall consider all of the following:

(1) The amount of time that has passed since the professional relationship terminated.

(2) The nature and duration of the therapy.

(3) The circumstances of termination.

(4) The client/patient's personal history, for example, unique vulnerabilities.

(5) The client/patient's current mental status.

(6) Statements or actions made by the licensed marriage and family therapist during the course of therapy suggesting or inviting the possibility of a post termination sexual or romantic relationship with the client/patient.

(7) The likelihood of adverse impact on the client/patient and immediate family members of the client/patient.

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