Being a Good Caring Person Is All I Need in Order to Practice Ethically and Reduce My Risk of a Malpractice Claim

Abstract

In general, mental health practitioners are very caring, compassionate, good people. Yet, even so, and even when working diligently to provide the best care possible to clients, it is possible to engage in unethical behaviors and be at risk of a malpractice claim. This chapter explains how ethical practice and effective risk management go far beyond being a nice and caring person. Specific guidance is provided on how to think and reason ethically, especially when confronted with ethical dilemmas and clinically complex and challenging situations. Specific risk management strategies that every mental health practitioner should engage in on an ongoing basis are explained. Guidance is provided on how to act in a manner consistent with one’s values to promote a good working relationship with clients, while ensuring ethical practice and active risk management.