MFTs are prohibited from conducting therapy with:

MFTs are prohibited from conducting therapy with the partners of former sexual relationships due to the ethical standards related to dual relationships. Engaging in therapy with someone with whom a therapist has had a prior sexual relationship can create conflicts of interest, compromise professional objectivity, and may lead to a power imbalance. This ethical guideline is designed to protect client welfare and ensure that the therapeutic relationship remains professional and focused solely on the client's needs.

In contrast, clients with prior emotional distress, those who want to change therapists, and familial clients do not pose the same ethical risks associated with dual relationships and are not explicitly prohibited from receiving therapy from an MFT. Hence, the focus on prohibiting therapy with partners of former sexual relationships is centered on maintaining the integrity of the therapeutic process and safeguarding clients from potential harm or conflicts of interest.