Ethics Issues and Challenges When Bringing Psychotherapy to the Underserved

Providing effective clinical services to underserved communities brings with it a number of ethics challenges that, if not given sufficient attention, can result in potentially well-intentioned mental health clinicians causing harm and placing themselves at risk of professional sanctions. The need to possess sufficient clinical and multicultural competence relevant to the individual in question to be able to provide clinically effective treatments, addressing language differences, and appropriately utilizing interpreters are each discussed. Knowledge of local laws and regulations when providing clinical services in underserved communities is addressed. Additionally, the practice of tele-mental health and appropriately addressing fee issues for all types of professional services provided are discussed. The need to proactively address the potential for the development of vicarious traumatization and effectively practicing self-care on an ongoing basis are emphasized for all mental health clinicians who provide treatment services to the underserved.