The ethical guidelines and professional standards for psychologists can vary depending on the country and the specific professional organizations to which they belong. However, in general, psychologists are advised to establish clear boundaries with their patients and limit communication to the therapy sessions as much as possible.
The primary reason for this is to maintain the therapeutic relationship and create a safe and professional environment for the patient. By limiting communication to scheduled therapy sessions, psychologists can ensure that they are providing treatment within a structured framework and avoid any potential dual relationships or conflicts of interest.
In some exceptional cases, limited communication outside of therapy sessions may occur, but it is typically for specific reasons, such as scheduling changes or in case of emergencies. Any communication outside of sessions should be kept professional, and psychologists are encouraged to consider the potential impact and implications of such interactions.
Overall, psychologists are trained to prioritize the well-being and confidentiality of their patients, and maintaining clear boundaries is an essential aspect of providing effective and ethical mental health care.