One of the major debates for counselors and psychologists concerns the costs and benefits of a dual or multiple relationship between the clinician and a client. One way in which a multiple relationship can occur is when a physician serves in one professional role and at the same time performs another role with the same person outside of the professional context (APA, 2002). Two main types of additional relationships in which a doctor may be involved with one or more individuals are a sexual or non-sexual relationship. It is ethically wrong to engage in a sexual relationship with a current client, student, supervisee, etc., leaving minimal room for debate. This leaves the debate open for therapists engaging in a non-sexual relationship with current individuals for whom they hold a current professional position. The positive and negative aspects of engaging in a multiple relationship will be discussed below, as well as current professional recommendations. Positives Whether in a school setting or when conducting therapeutic sessions, historically, a dual or multiple relationship in the mental health field has been considered wrong. However, some communities or environments may make it difficult to avoid multiple relationships. These contexts can be small communities such as lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender (LGBT), specific religions, military, graduate school programs, or rural towns. In these specific contexts, avoiding a multiple relationship would almost mean that the clinician blocks the world around him. Therefore, in some circumstances, avoiding these relationships may actually interfere with healthy professional interaction (Ryder & Hepworth, 1990). For example, a child who has been in therapy might ask his or her therapist to attend his or her graduation or some important event... middle of paper... ip and the types of activities this new relationship will entail ( Burian & Slimp, 2000 ). Once a decision is made to enter into a dual or multiple relationship, the therapist should obtain informed consent that includes established boundaries, confidentiality, and privacy for both parties involved (Schank, Helbrok, Haldeman, & Gallardo, 2010). The therapist should also have points of contact to discuss ongoing relationships and review them. Being educated on how to handle multiple relationships can also benefit both parties involved. In conclusion, there are two different views on multiple relationships in the mental health field. Some believe that these relationships should be avoided at all costs while others believe that certain circumstances are acceptable. Overall, when entering into a multiple relationship, you must take extreme care to protect your client and yourself.