Course Description:

In this ethics course we will discuss power dynamics and gaslighting, more specifically, how societal constructs and language can shift the power differential in the therapeutic relationship. This course is designed to increase awareness of gaslighting behaviors to improve the therapeutic relationship and avoid inadvertent slips into dangerous situations in the treatment room. By the end of this course, you will be able to confidently screen new clients, recognize the red flags of sexual solicitors, and professionally decline services or terminate the relationship with a client that makes you uncomfortable.

Learning Objectives:

 - Student will learn how social constructs affect power dynamics.
- Students will be able to identify problematic language in marketing materials and red flags in potential clients.
- Students will learn what gaslighting is and how it affects our safety.
- Students will be able to list exit strategies in unsafe situations in the treatment room.

Learning Outcomes:

- Students will be able to list three boundaries of their own and turn them into policies.
- Students will understand how to properly screen new clients.
- Students will understand and be able to identify gaslighting behaviors.
- Students will understand how to professionally decline services or end a professional relationship with a client that makes then uncomfortable.