California Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Law & Ethics Practice Exam

When considering self-disclosure in therapy, the recommended approach is to handle it cautiously and ethically. This is crucial because self-disclosure can influence the therapeutic relationship in significant ways. It has the potential to enhance the connection between the therapist and the client, but it also carries risks, such as shifting the focus away from the client's issues or creating a sense of discomfort.

Therapists should carefully evaluate their motivations for disclosing personal information and consider the client's needs and the therapeutic environment. Ethical standards suggest that any self-disclosure should serve a therapeutic purpose and enhance the client's understanding of their own situation, rather than merely serve the therapist's need to share personal anecdotes. This measured approach helps maintain the integrity of the therapeutic process while respecting the client's boundaries and fostering a safe space for exploration.