In general, it is considered unethical for a psychologist to treat someone they know personally, especially if there is a close relationship or a personal connection. This principle is known as "dual relationships" or "multiple relationships" in the field of psychology.
The reasons for avoiding such situations include:
Impaired Objectivity: A personal relationship can compromise the psychologist's ability to maintain objectivity and impartiality in their professional role. Their judgment may become clouded, and they may not be able to provide the necessary distance required in a therapeutic relationship.
Confidentiality Concerns: In a personal relationship, there might be an expectation of confidentiality that could conflict with the psychologist's ethical obligation to protect the client's confidentiality in a professional setting.
Potential Exploitation: There is a risk of power imbalance and exploitation in a dual relationship, as the psychologist may have undue influence over the client due to their personal connection.
Transference and Countertransference: Personal relationships can lead to transference and countertransference issues, where the client may project feelings or expectations onto the psychologist based on their existing relationship outside of therapy.
Boundary Confusion: Dual relationships can blur professional boundaries, making it challenging to establish and maintain appropriate therapeutic boundaries.
If a psychologist has a prior personal relationship with someone seeking therapy, they should refer the individual to another qualified professional who can provide appropriate and unbiased treatment. The psychologist should prioritize the well-being and best interests of the potential client and avoid any situation that could compromise the quality of care or the ethical standards of the therapeutic relationship.